Our History
Since the inception of the Scientific Esthetics Symposium in 2021, our mission has been to provide estheticians with a higher education online platform focusing on academics and science. Our ethos is to provide well researched, non-traditional, and thought provoking information to our community. While the overall theme for the symposium changes each year - our focus is to provide non -product aligned higher education. The ellipses featured on our icon represent chemistry, health, wellness, ethics, dermal sciences, philosophy, and electrophysiology. We also seek to symbolize the unification of ethics, professionalism and knowledge representing the exemplary esthetic professional.
Our Faculty
The Scientific Esthetics Symposium platform presents an all-star assemblage of many of the most notable and respected professionals in the global esthetic industry. Our desire is to unite estheticians with top notch global educators at a single event. Our vetted faculty consists of experienced educators and professionals who are passionate about their fields and committed to providing the best possible education to our attendees. We carefully select our faculty members based on their expertise, teaching experience, and dedication to their craft. Our faculty members are not only experts in their fields but also caring mentors who provide personalized guidance to our community.
lectures in development for the 2025 session ( AS OF 5/1)
COSMETIC CHEMISTRY
- BOTANICAL CHEMISTRY AND COSMETIC INGREDIENTS
- CLEARING CONCEPTS: ACNE THERAPEUTICS
- THE CHEMISTRY OF SENSITIVE SKIN INGREDIENTS
- NEUROCOSMETICS AND PSYCHODERMATOLOGY
- THE EFFICACY OF ESSENTIAL OILS AND THEIR SKIN PERMEATION
- THE MAGIC OF EXOSOMES: PRINCIPALS OF FUNCTION, ROLE IN CELLULAR THERAPY, AND APPLICATIONS IN COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY
APPLIED AND ELECTRICAL MODALITIES
- SKIN NEEDLING SCIENCE & TECHNIQUE FOR FACIAL REJUVENATION
- THE POWER OF PLASMA: THE USE OF PLASMA TECHNOLOGIES FOR AESTHETIC INDICATIONS
- LYMPHATIC PHYSIOLOGY AND THE INTEGRATION OF APPLIED MODALITIES
- STRUCTURAL PHYSIOGNOMY: SCULPTURAL FACIAL MASSAGE AND
TREATMENTS FOR FACIAL TYPING
- THE BIOMECHANICS OF CHEMICAL PEELING
- ELASTIC DECOMPRESSION TAPING - CELLULAR FLUID EXCHANGE / LYMPHATICS
- THE ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY & PHYSICS OF ESTHETIC MODALITIES
- GUA SHA: THE SCIENCE, APPLICATION & BIO MATRIX OF THE BODY
CLINICAL AND DERMAL SCIENCES
- CORNEOTHERAPY: UNDERSTANDING THE PATHWAY TO SKIN HOMEOSTASIS
- THE MORPHOLOGY OF FACIAL AND SKIN AGING
- ONCOLOGY ESTHETICS: BE FEARLESS IN YOUR SKIN: RECLAIMING BEAUTY AND CONFIDENCE AFTER CANCER
- THE ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSOME: CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS ON SKIN IMMUNITY
- THE BUSINESS OF SKIN ASSESSMENT: DEFINING THE FOCAL POINT OF
TREATMENT
- CELLS AND SIGNALS: THE SKIN IN MOTION
- A VISUAL COMPARISON: SKIN CONDITIONS ACROSS DIVERSE SKIN TONES
- BEYOND THE SURFACE: HOW MODERN HABITS ACCELERATE SKIN AGING AT THE CELLULAR LEVEL
- MODUS OPERANDI: THE RATIONALE AND IMPLEMENTATION OF CASE STUDIES
LECTURE DESCRIPTIONS, SCHEDULE, DOSSIERS
Files coming soon.
SES 2025 FACULTY SHORT BIOS
David Blow L.A.c, LMT,CEO
David is the creator of the NMT decompression concept and is the founder and CEO of both the NeuroMuscular Taping Institute and the DermoTaping Institute, which are based in Rome, Italy. He graduated from the Australian Acupuncture College after completing internships in Japan and at Guangdong Hospital in China, where he focused on Traditional Chinese Medicine, especially in stroke treatment and rehabilitation through acupuncture. With over 35 years in therapeutic rehabilitation, David has also trained in Australia, China, Japan, and Italy. He developed the NMT Concept, utilizing an elastic decompressive taping technique that has been clinically validated, showing reduced symptoms and enhanced treatment outcomes. As a global instructor of NeuroMuscular Taping and Dermo Taping, he teaches throughout Europe, the United States, Central and South America, Africa, and Asia. The Institute of Neuromuscular Taping was founded to research further and support this modality.
Dr. Yuliya Borzykh PhD
Dr. Yuliya Borzykh, PhD. is an outstanding international educator, dermatologist, physician, and skin practitioner passionate about our industry, especially education and research. She has worked in the general medical department at Ukraine Medical University and completed an internship in general therapy and cardiology. In 2009, she completed her specialization in Dermatology and Cosmetology and received a PhD from the Institute of Dermatology and Venerology of NAMS of Ukraine. In 2020, she became an associate professor at the Department of Medicine at Kyiv International University. Dr. Yuliya has also received a second degree in higher education in public management and health care administration. She is also an international educator in skin science and esthetics for DMK Ukraine.
Cecily Braden LE,LEI
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Kris Campell LE, CEO
Kris Campbell is a licensed esthetician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Kris is known as one of the leading voices in treating and nourishing sensitive skin. She became a licensed Esthetician in 2002 and has been actively involved in the professional skincare industry ever since. Kris spent her early career working with many professional skincare brands at an FDA laboratory where she was Special Projects Manager and Director of Sales for ten years. This is where Campbell identified a pressing need for high-quality skincare products for extremely sensitive and health-challenged skin. Campbell is a respected pillar of the professional skin care community and has written for some of the most prominent trade journals such as Skin Inc., Lipgloss + Aftershave, Dermascope, SkinDeep, Les Nouvelles, NASNPRO, and the former Day Spa Magazine. A recognized thought leader on the topic of sensitive skin, Kris has been selected to speak and present for internationally respected organizations such as The International Esthetics, Cosmetics and Spa Conference, The International Congress of Esthetics and Spa, Professional Beauty Association, Lipgloss + Aftershave, MECA, NASNPRO, and the Esthetician Connection.
Morag Currin - Skin Therapist Educator & Author, CANADA
Morag Currin, founder of Oncology Training International (OTI) was the first to supply the aesthetics industry with oncology aesthetics training based on a need to dispel the myth that aestheticians cannot provide safe services for people living with cancer and other health challenges. This integrative approach to cancer care considers a patient’s identity and helps them regain a positive relationship with their body. Today, OTI is an internationally recognized brand. Mórag Currin is a highly sought-after aesthetic educator with more than 27 years of spa industry experience and more than twelve years of training and training management experience. She pioneered the first Oncology Aesthetics® certification for salon/spa professionals and has set the standard in fourteen different countries, as well as her home country,South Africa. She is also the author of Oncology Esthetics: A Practitioner’s Guide – Expanded Edition (Allured Books, 2014) and Health Challenged Skin: The Estheticians’ Desk Reference (Allured Books, 2012).
Jimm Harrison - Master Aromatherapist & Alchemist
Jimm Harrison is a pioneering alchemist in essential oils and plant-based beauty. As a consultant, educator, author, and product formulator, his unique blend of expertise sets him apart in aromatherapy and holistic wellness. With over two decades of rich experience, Jimm specializes in the therapeutic use of essential oils, scent branding, and the integration of biophilia in spa and wellness environments. His approach transcends traditional methodologies, focusing on developing innovative plant-based psychodermatology, corneotherapy, and biophilic lifestyle programs that harmonize nature with holistic wellness and beauty. Jimm has taught clinical aromatherapy at esthetic and medical institutes, including his Essential Oil Certificate Program for Bastyr University, one of the leading naturopathic medicine Universities. He has presented extensively worldwide, is the author of 3 books, and has written for several spa and beauty magazines.
Dr. Elena Hernandez-Jiminez PhD
Dr. Elena Hernandez-Jiminez is a dedicated biophysicist with extensive expertise in skincare and dermatology, along with a comprehensive background in both research and practical application. She completed her postgraduate studies at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, New York, USA, and earned her PhD from the Russian State Medical University, Department of Biophysics, Medical and Biological Faculty, Moscow, Russia. In 1997, she founded and serves as the Editor-in-Chief of Cosmetics & Medicine Publishing Ltd., overseeing the publication of insightful research and developments in cosmetic dermatology. Additionally, she holds the position of Chairperson of the Executive Board of the International Association for Applied Corneotherapy (IAC) in Germany. Throughout her career, she has authored and co-authored numerous publications in professional journals and has served as both a co-author and editor for several significant book series.
Rebecca Gadberry LE, FMSCC
Rebecca.
Franck Joly L.Ac,MTOM,Dipl. OM
Franck Joly is a physician of Oriental Medicine and the owner of Franck Joly Régénération Cosmétique in Beverly Hills, CA. Born in France, Franck is the creator of a highly innovative and effective anti-aging face and body treatment that combines Eastern and Western treatments for unique skin rejuvenation. He is certified in Advanced Constitutional Facial Acupuncture and is recognized by the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine as a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine. Franck offers training to Plastic Surgery and Dermatology practices across the US and regularly lectures on anti-aging techniques at national and international medical conferences.
Pia Kynoch ND, BASc, Skin Therapist
Pia's mission is to empower and positively transform the way people think, live, work, and treat themselves and others. Through a rich multidisciplinary background and expertise, Pia aims to bridge the gap between conventional practices and holistic wellness. As a well-being practitioner, coach, researcher, educator, speaker, and author, Pia is passionate about catalyzing and supporting a paradigm shift to a true root-cause approach for healing, transformation, authenticity, and aliveness! Her journey in education and holistic wellness has been shaped by an array of formal studies, including Naturopathy, Quantum Biology, Functional Nutrition, Corneotherapy, Beauty and Dermal Therapies, NLP, Lymphatic Massage, Feminine Embodiment Yoga, Qi Gong, Reiki, Mindfulness, Breathwork, Acupressure, and much more, completed over nearly three decades of engagement. Pia is dedicated to helping the general public and health professionals unlock their full potential, embracing a more profound understanding of their mind/body connection, work, clients, and impact upon the world.
Dr. Mark Lees PhD,MS, CIDESCO Diplomat
Dr. Mark Lees is one of the country's most noted skin care and acne specialists, a celebrated author, an award-winning speaker, and a product developer. He holds a Ph.D. in Health Sciences, a Master of Science in Health, and a CIDESCO International Diploma. He is licensed to practice in Florida and Washington State. His product line for problem, sensitive, and sun-damaged skin is available at finer salons and clinics throughout the United States. Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP) has just bestowed Dr. Mark as the first ASCP Industry Icon Award recipient. The new award, part of ASCP’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards, honors a distinguished leader in the professional skin care industry who has made significant contributions through their work. Dr. Mark is a revered esthetic industry icon, and his wealth of information has supported the aesthetic industry for over four decades.
Dr. Jayant Lokhande MD,MBA,CSO
Dr. Lokhande is an expert in Botanical Drugs & Biotechnology Business Management and has successfully developed products for various global cosmeceuticals, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and medical foods companies. Originally from India, he is a scholar and speaker specializing in Ayurveda and Ayurvedic medicine. Dr. Lokhande has extensive clinical experience, particularly in using Botanical Drugs and Medical Foods for Complex and Chronic Diseases. His professional interests include Biodiversity Entrepreneurship, Bioprospecting, Medical Anthropology, Disease Reversal Therapeutics, and Ashtanga Yoga. Dr. Lokhande focuses on translating Yoga & Ayurveda Principles into Innovation, System & Technology Development. He has contributed to several books published by scientific publishers Taylor & Francis. Dr. Lokhande is the Chief Scientific Officer at DMK Skincare, where he leads Innovation and Product & Service End-User Education Development.
Dr. Erin Madigan-Fleck NMD,LE,LEI
Dr. Erin Madigan-Fleck founded and is the producer of the Scientific Esthetics Symposium and DermaEducationTV Advanced Esthetic Training. With over four decades of experience, she is an esteemed figure in dermatological skin sciences, holistic and integrative esthetics, and natural health. She is a naturopathic physician, licensed master cosmetologist-esthetician, licensed esthetic instructor, and holds a dermatology tech certificate. Dr. Erin serves on the Educational Commission for the International Association of Applied Corneotherapy in Germany and has been an advisory board member for Skin Inc. Magazine for over ten years. She has educated thousands of estheticians, massage therapists, cosmetologists, and medical professionals at numerous schools, institutes, and trade shows. Her work, The Effects of External Matter on the Microbiome, Biochemistry, and Trans Barrier Influences, was showcased at the 8th International Symposium of the International Association of Applied Corneotherapy in Seville, Spain. In 2014, she developed and presented the first Holistic & Integrative Esthetics 5-day certification training course for United States estheticians. Dr. Madigan-Fleck's unique naturopathic approach to addressing sensitive, problematic, and compromised skin has become her trademark. She received her Naturopathic Doctoral Degree from the University of Arts, Sciences and Technology Medical School with high honors. She continues to write articles and research globally, and in addition to her lectures and ongoing authorship, she serves her clientele at her private practice - Naturophoria, in Atlanta, GA.
Helena Pahava LE, Dermatocosmetologist
Helena hails from the Republic of Georgia in Eastern Europe and is a former ballerina. As a third-generation practitioner, she upholds the aesthetic legacy of her mother and grandmother. For over 30 years, she has dedicated herself to enhancing and perfecting the Manual Facelift Method™, which has evolved into a highly respected discipline. The Manual Facelift Method™ is a unique facial massage technique that integrates buccal massage, lymphatic drainage, and advanced manual lifting approaches. Based in New York, Helena has trained and certified licensed professionals worldwide through extensive continuing education courses, offered both in-person and online. Her expertise includes thorough instruction on facial anatomy, manual techniques, posture correction, and skin health, enabling professionals to improve their skills and client results. This proprietary method is practiced by professionals across numerous countries, including India, Jordan, Canada, Australia, the U.S., Germany, Finland, Norway, and the U.K. A gifted and passionate educator, Helena loves mentoring estheticians, massage therapists, and healthcare professionals, helping them grow their businesses while avoiding career-related physical burnout.
Rene´ Serbon - International Corneotherapy Expert & Skin Therapist
René is a corneotherapy and international skin treatment expert, global educator, and industry consultant who resides in Canada. She is the chairperson for the Educational Commission for the prestigious International Association of Applied Corneotherapy (IAC)in Germany, is CIDESCO and CIBTAC certified, and is one of the world’s few recognized global educators for the famed Pastiche Advanced Training Institute. She graduated from the New Zealand Institute of Beauty Therapy and Massey University in Auckland, New Zealand, with a certificate in business studies, business management, and marketing. She is the owner and CEO of Dermal Systems Inc. in British Columbia, which sources outstanding products and diagnostic equipment while providing the training and education needed to enable retail clinics to grow their business successfully.
Pamela Springer LE,LEI
Pamela Springer is a Licensed Aesthetician, Aesthetics Instructor, and Author who established The Skin & Makeup Institute of Arizona.
She educates aestheticians and medical professionals on clinical treatments for pigmentation disorders, acne, and signs of aging.
Her prior role as an educator for a leading professional skin care brand allowed her to develop a highly sought-after class on diverse skin types.
With over 20 years of experience working with these skin tones, Springer launched the Global Skin Solutions (GSS) Corrective line.
GSS products are specifically designed for licensed professionals to provide corrective skin care for concerns related to Global Skin Tones 3 to 6. Ms. Springer writes for industry journals and cultural magazines. She is also the author of " Natural Radiance – A Guide for Ethnic Skin Care, "A 50-page resource aimed at consumers that explores the unique challenges, care requirements, textures, and maintenance for diverse skin types.
Pamela Springer offers on-site and remote training sessions for aesthetic medicine practitioners, aestheticians, and healthcare professionals nationwide.
Dr. Katerina Stephenson MSc, PhD
Dr. Steventon is a global consultant with vast experience in the clinical, commercial, and research sectors. Her journey started in Southern Bohemia, Czech Republic, where she learned about the beneficial effects of plants on teenage skin. As a Senior Innovation Consultant for NBIC, she also runs an independent evidence-based skincare clinic in Beverly, East Yorkshire, UK, focusing on consumer concerns related to skin health, aging, acne, skin barrier issues, and the link between skin and mental well-being. She holds an MScin Clinical Biochemistry and a PhD in Transdermal Absorption Sciences. Dr. Steventon advises both large and small skincare brands on product development and is an internationally recognized scientific speaker, fluent in six languages, presenting at global conferences in skin science and beauty.
Clive Witham L.Ac, MSc
Clive Witham L. A c., M.Sc., is a licensed acupuncturist and the director of the Komorebi Institute and the Gua sha Center in Barcelona, Spain. He has over three decades of experience in the field and is the creator of Ecology in Motion Gua sha. Clive specializes in Gua sha and promoting the knowledge of ancient Chinese healing as a viable, practical world medicine. He has authored several books, including "Holographic Gua Sha" and "Facial Gua Sha. He has been treating patients for 20 years, 10 of them in a specialized clinic in a small Spanish enclave in North Africa. He has authored four books on East Asian medicine, which have been published in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and Polish. He also regularly edits a tourist guidebook in Japan and has published articles for Spirituality and Health and Yoga Magazine.
Margaret Walsh BS, CIDESCO, ITEC
Margaret Walsh is a dynamic educator, consultant, motivational speaker, importer, international distributor, and a highly successful entrepreneur based in Auckland, New Zealand. She holds a B.S. in Education and a Diploma in Teaching from Waikato University – Hamilton, New Zealand. Additionally, she serves as the secretary for the Global International Association of Corneotherapy Executive Committee in Germany. Margaret has been awarded an Honorary Lifetime Membership with the New Zealand Beauty Therapy Association, is a CIDESCO Diplomate, and holds ITEC honors in Epilation and Beauty Therapy in the United Kingdom. Her consultancy and training worldwide focus on achieving consistently high standards and measurable results, emphasizing the selection of staff, staff training, and continuing education driven by motivation and engagement factors.
Alexandra Zani LE,LEI
Alexandra is an award-winning international educator, researcher, and author with a cell biology and medical technology background. Her passion for esthetics and education has earned her numerous advanced certifications in the U.S. and abroad. Her experience includes cosmeceutical product development, and she has co-authored books, including the Milady’s Standard textbook. Alex has lectured at conferences worldwide and was invited to speak at the 2016 International Association for Applied Corneotherapy Global Summit in Cologne, Germany. She has served on the prestigious educational commission for the International Association of Applied Corneotherapy for many years and was featured in the December 2020 issue of Dermascope Magazine as one of the "Skin Saviors – 45 Faces of the Industry". In 2016, Alex was awarded The Esthetics International Humanitarian Award at the Southern Spa and Salon Conference in Hickory, NC. She continues to consult, write, teach, and research in addition to serving her clientele in Greenville, SC.