The Aesthetics Conference and Exhibition (ACE) that took place recently in London is an exciting reminder of the future in aesthetics, both product- and research-wise. Each exhibitor took pride in their work, and each speaker showed eagerness in helping practitioners refine their skill sets, whether this be medical, technical, or business-related.
But taking a step back from this rapidly growing industry, we should perhaps take a moment to reflect on what the industry means to us. Aesthetics will likely keep playing a fundamental role in this ageing world, but what will it signify to you personally, and to society at large? As nurses, what are some values that keep you grounded? What are some tactics to help you navigate financial challenges, and what are some rules in your practice that you may have overlooked?
In this issue, we celebrate the idea of introducing new ideas in aesthetics, while not forgetting the principles of what it means to be a nurse. Starting with a more clinical topic, you will find Dr. Eugenia Bonelli's piece on incobotulinumtoxinA and its role in the treatment of upper facial lines. Applying aesthetic thinking to real-life scenarios, we delve into the work of Dr. Jennifer Taylor, Dr. Alison Owen and psychology student Corrina McHale, where they reveal qualitative perspectives on the psychology of UK brides. Moving on, doctoral researcher Hector Barbosa Triana introduces recent developments in anti-ageing, while also inviting thoughts on what anti-ageing means to humans on a more philosophical level.
Grounded in a classic nursing theory, the work of Leslie Fletcher is a beautiful reminder of the multiple roles that nurses play in the well-being of a patient. Kate Monteith-Ross also gives important reminders of pillars to follow for ensuring the safety of our patients.
As nurses, some of you run your own professional practices, and Adam Bernstein's piece will provide you ideas to manage your clinics in the cost of living crisis.
Of course, this issue wouldn't be complete without crucial insights from our research roundup (by Claudia McGloin), the British Association of Aesthetic Nurses (BACN) (by Anna Baker), and the Joint Council of Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) (by Dawn Knight and Kimberley Cairns).
For those of you who have missed this year's ACE event, don't worry, as here I also cover, in more detail, my reflections on what it taught me as an editor.
I sincerely hope you find this issue an interesting read!