Description of Units
Important note to students: The following units or unit clusters can be studied as part of a formal AACDS qualification or as a stand-alone course.
1.1 Dermal Science Theory
- 1.1A – focuses on dermal health from a gross and microscopic context. Lectures reinforce the dermal therapist's and doctor's scope of practice in identifying common cosmetic concerns and dermatological issues. Competency unit HLTCOM406B provides students with the knowledge to identify when, why and how a patient should be referred to a cosmetic medical professional or other health professional. Demonstration of competency will be required in unit 2.2 Dermal Science Practical.
- 1.1B – Dermal Science Theory provides comprehensive learning in relation to the most commonly performed dermal therapies. Epidermal Resurfacing Techniques covers chemical peeling, microdermabrasion and skin needling.
- 1.1C –Light-Based Therapies is focused on the clinical practice of IPL, though lecture topics also encompass laser, radiofrequency, infrared and LED technology. In addition to the essential underpinning knowledge of laser and light physics, this module includes an IPL/Laser Safety Officers Certificate approved by QLD Radiation Health and the Radiological Council of WA.
The learning in Dermal Science Theory is further reinforced with a DVD pack demonstrating skills development in all dermal therapies.
1.2 Dermal Science Human Biology
Dermal Science Human Biology provides students with an extension of their underpinning knowledge in human anatomy and physiology whilst providing a foundation for further studies in dermal science. This unit explores each organ system in relation to skin health and appearance enabling students to investigate the causative factors of physiological and pathological skin changes/diseases.
Throughout this unit there is a strong focus on how environmental factors, genetics, intrinsic ageing and endocrine changes affect the histological and visual qualities of the skin.
1.2GC Principles of Cosmetic Nursing
This unit is specifically developed for ENs or RNs as an introduction to the their role in cosmetic medicine, especially in a day hospital and theatre environment. Lectures focus on the roles and responsibilities of the practice nurse, skin science, pre and post-operative care, theatre dynamics, infection control, day hospital accreditation standards and advanced resuscitation.
This unit also provides foundation knowledge for students wishing to complete practical competencies in injectable procedures.
1.3 Communication for Cosmetic Dermal Science
With such a variety of information in beauty and cosmetic medicine it is difficult to determine anecdotal remedies from real science. This unit will teach students how and what to research in order to take an evidence-based approach to cosmeceutical products, cosmetic equipment and dermal therapies.
Communication for Cosmetic Dermal Science will serve as a foundation for future studies and the practice of dermal therapy in relation to patient communication, consultations and written and photo documentation.
1.4 Practice Management and Administration
Managerial and administration skills are an important asset to have in any small business environment and is a skill highly sought after by potential employers. This unit cluster is comprised of two competency units, which have been customised to the medispa concept – Manage a Practice and Ensure Team Effectiveness.
Students will be able to apply these skills to the management and administration of a cosmetic medical practice, beauty salon, day spa or the establishment of their own clinic.
2.0 Working Within The Cosmetic Medical Practice
This unit cluster describes the role of the dermal therapist and enrolled nurse in the cosmetic medical practice and other health care areas. Students will learn the ethical, legal and jurisdictional requirements applied to cosmetic medicine and dermal therapies, whilst gaining a sound understanding of their duty or care to patients. Some assessments associated with this unit will be delivered in unit 2.2 Dermal Science Practical.
2.1 Cosmetic Science Surgical and Non-Surgical
Essential for the dermal therapist or nurse wishing to work in a cosmetic medical practice, this unit provides an in-depth knowledge of each cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedure.
Lectures examine the indications, techniques, complications and recovery involved in common cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedures and will also discuss the analysis of facial and body assessment. Lectures are presented by Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeons and incorporate DVD presentations of live surgery.
Pre 2.2 Preparation for Dermal Science Practical
This unit encompasses the competencies required to safely and effectively perform a range of dermal therapy procedures in a cosmetic medical environment. Competencies include first aid, documenting and maintaining patient records and infection control policies and procedures applied to the application of dermal therapies and injectable procedures. Some assessments associated with this unit will be delivered in unit 2.2 Dermal Science Practical.
Please Note: Online students are required to source a local training provider and fund the associated costs for unit HLTFA301B Apply First Aid (approx. fee is $100)
Unit co/prerequisite – 1.1 Dermal Science Theory
2.2 Dermal Science Practical Workshops
Dermal Science Practical is a hands-on unit in which students transfer their theoretical knowledge into clinical practice. Comprised of four competency units, student achieve competency through performing a required number of treatments (case studies) in the 3 grades of microdermabrasion, AHA peels, Jessner's Peels, superficial TCA peels, IPL photo rejuvenation and permanent hair reduction and skin needling. These competencies ensure students develop a high standard of technique whilst maintaining a strong focus on hygiene and safety. All practical workshops take place with only two students per trainer/assessor, ensuring a quality-learning environment and exclusivity to equipment.
Unit Prerequisite – 1.1 Dermal Science Theory
2.3 Psychology for Cosmetic Dermal Science
Dermal therapy involves the close and personal interaction with patients, and a background knowledge of personality types and human behaviour will enable the Dermal Therapist to have a greater understanding of patient care.
Lecture topics include psychosocial aspects of cosmetic medicine and surgery, self-perception (body dysmorphic disorder and anorexia), global perceptions of beauty and the role of the media in cosmetic medicine.
Unit Prerequisite – 1.3 Communications for Dermal Science
2.4 Cosmeceutical Science
Cosmeceutical science will significantly enhance the therapist’s knowledge of over-the-counter cosmeceuticals and prescription pharmaceuticals used in dermatology. This knowledge is beneficial in order to effectively treat common skin concerns and complement cosmetic surgery and/or dermal therapy procedures.
This unit provides an evidence-based approach to specific cosmeceutical ingredients as opposed to branded formulas.
3.0 Clinical Experience
Clinical experience is a pre-requisite to graduation. A student must log a minimum of 300 hours of clinical experience in a cosmetic medical practice either during or after their course. Clinical experience maybe obtained through employment or work experience or a combination of both.
3.1 Introduction to Injectables (Optional)
This optional unit will provide Doctors and RNs with an opportunity to learn the theoretical and hands-on skills required to inject BOTOX® and dermal fillers within the appropriate doctor supervised setting. The two-day training course is conducted and sponsored by industry leaders Allergan.
Students will be required to perform BOTOX® and JUVERDERM® injections to obtain an internationally recognised industry certificate.
Unit Prerequisites – 1.1 Dermal Science Theory and 1.2GC Principles of Cosmetic Nursing
3.3 Perform Photo Dynamic Therapy
Photo Dynamic Therapy (PDT) is fast becoming a mainstream treatment for non-melanoma skin cancers, photo ageing and acne. This theory and practical unit provides students with the knowledge and skills to perform PDT within a medical practice. On completion of this unit, students will receive an additional certificate from the WA Institute of Skin Cancer Medicine and Rural Health.
Please Note: Non MBBS students are required to provide a current letter of medical supervision prior to enrolling in this unit.
Contact AACDS
Australasian Academy of Cosmetic Dermal Science
Suite 1a Arcadia Chambers, 1 Roydhouse St
SUBIACO, Perth Western Australia 6008
Phone: +61 8 9382 4788
Fax: +61 8 9382 4833
Email: enquiries@aacds.edu.au
CRICOS Provider No. 02813B
