Somatology focuses on the study of the body's systems, particularly the skin, with an emphasis on health and well-being. Aesthetics, on the other hand, deals with enhancing physical appearance through various methods.
Combining these two fields equips you with the knowledge and skills to provide clients with treatments that promote both inner and outer beauty.
Up the NQF ladder
Before you can become a qualified Advanced Aesthetic Therapist, you need to have obtained both a Somatology qualification and then an Advanced Diploma in Dermal Aesthetics.
A Somatologist graduated with an NQF level 6 diploma. They are skincare specialists with extensive knowledge of the skin, the science behind technology and cosmetic ingredients.
There are endless benefits to studying one additional year further to graduate with an Advanced Diploma in Dermal Aesthetics at an NQF Level 7. Advanced Aesthetic Therapists may provide the following services at a medical aesthetic practice:
- Conduct detailed pre-screening consultation prior to seeing the medical practitioner
- Assist the medical practitioner with certain treatments
- Perform a wide variety of advanced treatments that fall within their scope of practice
- Perform pre-and post-procedure treatments
- Consult with the patient on selecting the most suitable homecare treatment protocols to assist in achieving the desired outcomes
- Preparing the treatment room for the medical practitioner prior to a procedure
- Scheduling appointments
- Follow-up with patients after procedures
The value of an Advanced Aesthetic Therapist in a practice comes down to so much more than just the treatments he/she can perform. That includes problem-solving abilities and a level of independence.
While the world of aesthetics might seem glamorous, it's crucial to choose an accredited course of study.
The Importance Of Checking Institution Accreditation
To advance your career further, it’s recommended that an Advanced Diploma in Dermal Aesthetics is studied. However, it’s important to remember that Matrics cannot enrol for Advanced Diploma in Dermal Aesthetics without having completed a Somatology diploma at NQF Level 6 to qualify.
Institutions such as Isa Carstens® Academy have found that many of those applying for their Advanced Diploma in Dermal Aesthetics for further studies do not meet the admission criteria.
We often receive applications for the Advanced Diploma course, but cannot accept them because the applicant was not aware that the beauty course that they studied was not accredited at an NQF level 6. This is why starting on the right educational path for your career goals is important.
It’s therefore advised that before enrolling in a Somatology course at an institution, the student should check that the institution is registered as a Higher Education Provider, and that the course is accredited as a Higher Education Qualification at an NQF level 6, by visiting the SAQA website.
Many beauty courses are available nationally and internationally; however, prospective students often do not realise the difference between Somatology as a Higher Education Qualification compared to non-accredited courses or courses accredited as skills-based qualifications before investing in their education.
The Diploma in Somatology course offered at the Isa Carstens® Academy is accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) as a Higher Education Qualification.
Somatology Courses Open More Doors Compared To Other Beauty Therapy Courses
A course such as Somatology opens more doors compared to other beauty therapy courses and also allows for further higher education studies and working with Doctors. Depending on the student's qualification, there is a wide variety of jobs to choose from, ranging from reception and management to therapists specializing in specific treatments.
While studying a Somatology course at Isa Carstens® Academy, students get 600 hours of practical work experience to hone their skills, so that they can be an asset to any salon, spa, passenger ship or skin care clinic.
Skin care is the most popular choice as a specialist field and is complemented by an Advanced Diploma in Dermal Aesthetics. This helps students to expand their knowledge of skin care and technology for when they work with doctors in the aesthetic industry.
Being An Advanced Aesthetic Therapist
Some examples of the procedures performed by Advanced Aesthetic Therapists are chemical peelings, microneedling, intense pulsed light and laser and pre- and postprocedural care. They all require more advanced and detailed knowledge of the specific tissue interactions occurring in the skin – as well as a higher level of problem-solving abilities to deal with possible complications.
It is, therefore, essential that therapists possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform these treatments safely and effectively. Therapists should clearly understand their level of training, work only within their scope of practice, always act in the best interest of the public, and provide the highest quality and safest practice possible.
Understanding the Scope of Practice
Many studies have shown that injuries resulting from aesthetic treatments are due to insufficient and inadequate training. Extensive training and education are emphasised to equip therapists with the knowledge and skills to deliver optimal outcomes while minimising risks such as scarring, burns and pigmentary changes.
By adhering to a scope of practice and staying abreast of advancements in the field, therapists uphold industry standards and safeguard the well-being of their patients.
The scope of practice for Advanced Aesthetic Therapists, as defined by the South African Association of Health and Skincare Professionals (SAAHSP), follows a three-tier system based on the level of risk to patients. This structured approach ensures that treatments are administered with precision and care, with appropriate supervision to mitigate potential complications.
- Level 1: Procedures are either cosmetic in nature or minimally invasive and may be performed without medical supervision.
- Level 2: Procedures are intermediate in nature and may be performed with a consulting medical practitioner without direct medical supervision.
- Level 3: Procedure may only be performed under direct medical supervision. A medical practitioner needs to be on site.
In conclusion, Somatology and aesthetics studies offer a rewarding career path for those passionate about health and beauty. By choosing an accredited course, you'll gain the knowledge, skills, and credibility to excel in this dynamic field.
Head to the Isa Carstens® Academy website to find out more.
