WELCOME TO THE SCIENTIFIC ESTHETICS SYMPOSIUM
The SES is the leading global, non-product aligned, online educational conference now in its fourth year - devoted exclusively to scientific academics and advanced esthetic topics.
The Scientific Esthetics Symposium is presented to the esthetic community as an offering to foster an educational consortium. Our core vision acknowledges that change is necessary and growth - is worth changing for. The necessity for higher learning in esthetics is foundational for our industry to remain aligned with evolving advancements in all genres of esthetic sciences, and practices and in unison with the clinical and medical community.
"The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows."
Sidney. J. Harris
YOUR HOST, SES FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Dr. Erin Madigan-Fleck NMD,LE,LEI
Dr. Erin Madigan-Fleck is a renowned expert in dermatological skin sciences, holistic and clinical esthetics, and natural health, with over 40 years of experience. As a naturopathic physician, licensed master cosmetologist-esthetician, and esthetic instructor, she also holds a dermatology tech certificate. Dr. Erin serves on the Educational Board for the International Association of Applied Corneotherapy in Germany and is a member of the advisory board for Skin Inc. Magazine. She has numerous certifications and memberships in the United States and internationally. Dr. Madigan-Fleck is deeply committed to the aesthetics industry, focusing on academia, education, and research. For decades, her articles have been featured in esthetic, cosmetic chemistry, and wellness publications, including Skin Inc., Les Nouvelles Esthétiques, Euro Cosmetics, and Dermascope Magazines. With over 35 years of experience as a licensed esthetic instructor, she has taught at esthetic schools and developed fully accredited curriculum programs. Dr. Madigan-Fleck has educated thousands of estheticians, massage therapists, cosmetologists, and medical professionals at schools, trade shows, and institutes. Drawing on her clinical and medical aesthetic experience, along with her formal education in naturopathy, holistic nutrition, and alternative medicine, she has established herself as a visionary in integrating esthetics, natural health, and functional nutrition. She is a strong advocate for higher education and is dedicated to enhancing the quality of aesthetic training through high-quality continuing education. Her goal is to provide advanced academic education to the aesthetic community, demonstrating her unwavering commitment and fostering educational growth in the aesthetic industry for years to come.
Welcome to the Scientific Esthetics Symposium © 2026
- LEADING UNITED STATES AND INTERNATIONAL EDUCATORS
- NON- PRODUCT-ALIGNED EDUCATION
- EDUCATIONAL DIVERSITY- GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES IN EDUCATION AND PHILOSOPHIES
- ONLINE - LIVE & INTERACTIVE POWERPOINT LECTURES
- NON- PRODUCT ALIGNED EDUCATION
- DAY AND EVENING CLASSES - Offering varied time zone attendance opportunities for United States and International attendees.
- ALL CLASSES PRESENTED - In Eastern Standard Time Zone USA
- LECTURES - Attend any lecture or all lectures - for one ticket price
SPECIAL EXCLUSIVE BONUS!
- When you attend FOUR live online symposium lectures you receive:
- Security clearance to our educational portal
- Additional educational downloads
- PDF's of the Symposium Powerpoint Presentations
- Invitation security access to view the symposium recorded videos in our drive for 30 days.
- COA APPROVED - Opportunity to Receive CE's - Commission on Educational Accreditation COA
- NCEA Re-Certification: Earn 10 credits when you attend 12 lectures
- For complete NCEA information for the sympsoium, please see the NCEA and certification section on our website.
- CONFERENCE CERTIFICATE AVAILABLE
- Conference Attendance & Intellectual Property Policies are Applicable
- Required sign in for each class in chat log on Zoom for attendance
- Conference Attendence & Intellectual Property Policies are Applicable
GLOBAL EDUCATIONAL AMBASSADOR
Each year the SES selects an Educational Ambassador as an outstanding exemplary esthetic professional who embodies the persona of the ideals and successes esthetic professionals strive to attain throughout their entire career. Our ambassador represents the core values of the SES and has consistently displayed dedication to the advancement of esthetic education, successfully excels in both the public and professional arena by owning a successful practice and training consultancy. The SES Educational Ambassador demonstrates valuable philanthropic intentions for the future of the esthetic industry through writing articles and serving on multiple global educational platforms sharing their knowledge and expertise.
We are honored and elated to introduce Dr. Elena Hernandez -Jimenez PhD - as our esteemed recipient for the Scientific Esthetics Symposium 2025 session.
David Blow L.A.c, LMT,CEO - ITALY
DERMOTAPING © & LYMPHATICS - DECOMPRESSION TAPING
LECTURE # DB01 11/10 - 9:30-10:30 AM EST
DermoTaping® is an elastic decompression taping method that originated in Italy in 2000 by David Blow. The system is based on the innovative Neuro Muscular Taping concept used in neurological and orthopedic rehabilitation. Initial guidelines were established, and a series of training sessions in specific treatment areas were offered, covering the body, face, and décolleté, in combination with medical surgical interventions and oncological skin healthcare programs. The objective of DermoTaping is to "nourish from the inside.” This dilation and decompressive taping method helps improve blood circulation, skin oxygenation, nutrition, and fluidification by activating continuous fluid exchange in the treated area. DermoTaping is a functional, dynamic treatment system that can be used in several areas of aesthetics.
Dr. Yuliya Borzykh PhD - UKRAINE
THE BIOMECHANICS OF CHEMICAL PEELING
LECTURE # YB01 11/9 -7:30-8:30 PM EST
Chemical peeling utilizes chemical agents to induce controlled damage to the epidermis and may also impact the dermis. The goal is to stimulate skin renewal and remodeling, improving the skin's appearance and texture. A chemical peel can effectively address signs of aging on the face, neck, and hands. When selecting the type of peel, it is essential to consider the complex biochemical processes involved in skin development, alongside a physical skin assessment and other clinical factors to determine the candidate's suitability for the procedure. This lecture will cover the mechanisms of chemical peels on skin cells, the effects of skin inflammation, possible interactions between chemical peels and systemic medications, and the biochemistry behind chemical peels and enzyme compounds.
Cecily Braden LE, LEI- USA
LIFECYCLE OF LYMPH: STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND FLOW
LECTURE # CB01 11/9 - 11:30 AM -12:30 PM EST
The human body relies on interconnected systems to maintain health, and the lymphatic system—often called the “Elixir of Life”—plays a vital role in immunity, vitality, and recovery. This class explores the lifecycle of lymph and its relationship to the blood, emphasizing its significance from an esthetic perspective. We’ll examine the structure and function of lymph and introduce techniques that support and enhance its function—such as dry brushing for circulation and manual lymphatic drainage for lymph flow. You’ll learn how to incorporate these methods into an effective personal or professional care routine.
Kris Campbell LE, CEO - USA
DIFFUSING INGREDIENTS AND SKIN SENSITIVITY
LECTURE # CK01 11/9 - 6:30-7:30 PM EST
Skin sensitivity is a growing issue affecting many skin types. Continuous exposure to irritants and substances that disrupt the skin’s acid mantle, natural lipids, and moisture levels increases vulnerability to sensitivity. Many people are sensitive to at least one typical ingredient in skin care or cosmetic products, and those with a compromised stratum corneum are at a higher risk of irritation and sensitivity. Products may contain ingredients that can act antagonistically—either individually or in combination with others—triggering immune responses leading to redness, itching, dryness, stinging, irritation, and, in some cases, edema. This lecture will cover essential aspects of skin sensitivity, why treatments may “go awry,” and highlight both well-known and lesser-known cosmetic agents that may act as antagonists and contribute to skin sensitivity.
Morag Currin-Oncology Esthetics CANADA
BE FEARLESS IN YOUR SKIN: RECLAIMING BEAUTY AND CONFIDENCE AFTER CANCER
LECTURE # MC01 11/10 - 3:00-4:00 PM EST
Cancer treatments often cause visible reminders on the skin, creating challenges for survivors. Side effects like dryness, hyperpigmentation, rashes, radiation tattoos, scarring, and loss of facial volume can impact self-image and emotional well-being, leading to feelings of fear, grief, and vulnerability. The Be Fearless approach acknowledges these struggles with sensitivity, encouraging survivors to confront their reflection with courage and compassion. Oncology Esthetics-certified estheticians provide more than skincare; they offer healing touch, attentive space, and scientifically grounded care. Whether during or after treatment, survivors receive guidance toward physical relief and emotional renewal, step by step. The conversation about survivorship often stops after treatment, yet survivors live with lasting effects. Be Fearless goes further, affirming you are not alone, not forgotten, and deserve to feel whole again. This isn’t vanity; it’s about dignity, recovery, and reclaiming self-worth
Rebecca Gadberry LE, FSCC - USA
UNLOCK THE SECRETS OF INGREDIENT LISTS
LECTURE # RG01 11/10 - 8:00-9:00 PM EST
Dive into the confusing world of skincare ingredient lists with 5-time industry legend Rebecca Gadberry, LE, FSCC. Drawing from her renowned UCLA cosmetic science courses, she unveils 12 powerful ingredient secrets and debunks 4 persistent myths about what you see on the label. You'll learn how to master the language of INCI names, understand the critical 1% rule, and learn to identify ingredient sources and functions briefly. You'll challenge common assumptions about "unpronounceable" ingredients and discover why an ingredient's position on a product label can be misleading when evaluating its worth or safety. Gain practical insider knowledge that boosts your credibility and helps you give better advice to clients
Jimm Harrison Master Aromatherapist USA
ESSENTIAL OIL THERAPEUTIC PATHWAYS: SKIN ABSORPTION, SURFACE RECEPTORS, AND THE OLFACTORY RESPONSE
LECTURE # JH01 11/10 5:00-6:00 PM EST
Topical treatments don’t require deep penetration to be effective. In this session, we’ll explore the three key mechanisms by which essential oils and plant-based compounds influence both skin and systemic wellness: skin absorption, surface receptor activation, and olfactory signaling.
Through a scientific lens, we’ll look at how active compounds interact with receptors at the skin barrier, what penetrates the skin and why that matters, and how scent engages the nervous system in real-time. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how to design esthetic and wellness treatments that support the skin and whole-body wellness.
Dr. Elena Hernandez -Jiminez PhD ISRAEL
THE POWER OF PLASMA: THE USE OF PLASMA TECHNOLOGIES FOR AESTHETIC INDICATIONS
LECTURE # EH02 11/9 8:30 - 9:30 AM EST
Plasma is an ionized gas that offers amazing opportunities in aesthetic medicine. There is a high interest in devices that generate plasma. The market features several plasma technologies, which differ from an engineering perspective, as well as their therapeutic capabilities and indications for use. We will discuss in detail what plasma is, how it is generated, and the difference between "hot" and "cold" plasma. You will learn how the skin responds to plasma and the mechanisms behind its clinical effects. We will also examine how different plasma devices are constructed and for what aesthetic purposes they can be used.
THE MAGIC OF EXOSOMES: PRINCIPALS OF FUNCTION, ROLE IN CELLULAR THERAPY, AND APPLICATIONS IN COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY
LECTURE #EH01 11/10 10:30-11:30 AM EST
We live in an era of remarkable scientific discoveries, and interest in exosomes—vesicles measuring just 30 to 100 nm—is rapidly growing. These tiny "couriers" transfer signals between cells and play a crucial role in coordinating the functions of tissues and organs in the body. In medicine, exosomes are already being used for therapy and differential diagnostics, opening new horizons for treatment. In the world of cosmetics, they have become a true hit—since their introduction to the market several years ago, the demand for exosome-based products has only increased. What are exosomes? How are they produced and utilized? What tangible benefits do they offer, and what is simply marketing hype? We will address these and many other compelling questions regarding these unique and effective vesicles.
Franck Joly LAc, MTOM Dipl. OM USA
FACIAL REJUVENATION – MEDICAL AND SURGICAL NEEDLING
LECTURE#FJ0 11/10 6:00-7:00 PM EST
Join Franck Joly, our skin needling expert, as he shares his innovative approach to anti-aging. He blends Eastern medical wisdom with Western precision techniques. With a robust background in Traditional Oriental Medicine and expertise in Advanced Constitutional Facial Acupuncture, Franck has established himself as a leader in holistic skincare. His treatments include Percutaneous Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), championed by Dr. Des Fernandes, to boost collagen production for a smoother complexion. Franck employs distinctive techniques that combine medical and surgical micro-needling. He is committed to sharing his expertise through training and lectures, empowering others to provide effective anti-aging treatments for their clients. His significant contributions to the anti-aging sector offer a rejuvenation pathway that blends the art and science of rejuvenation skincare.
Pia Kynoch ND, BASc - AUSTRALIA
BEYOND THE SURFACE: HOW MODERN HABITS ACCELERATE SKIN AGING AT THE CELLULAR LEVEL
LECTURE #PK01 11/10 7:00-8:00 PM EST
This lecture will focus beneath the surface to explore how the stress of our modern environment—particularly inactivity and artificial light—disrupts mitochondrial health, creating the ideal conditions for premature skin aging and dysfunction. Equip yourself with knowledge and strategies to address the root cause, not just the symptoms. Discover the link between mitochondria and skin health, the effects of chronic stress on the skin barrier, the impact of blue light and circadian rhythm disruption, and how movement can serve as mitochondrial medicine that enhances skin radiance. Learn to identify signs of mitochondrial burnout in the skin and explore practical protocols and straightforward practices to promote holistic skin vitality.
Dr. Mark Lees PhD, MS, LE - USA
CLEARING CONCEPTS: ACNE THERAPEUTICS –
LECTURE #ML01 11/9 8:30-9:30 PM EST
Join Dr. Lees as he discusses prescription and OTC acne medications and the science behind their use. Learn how esthetic performance ingredients as well as botanicals can also play a part in clearing problem skin and can often be integrated with medications to help minimize potential unpleasant side effects and make treatment more user-friendly. Retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics (topical and oral), alpha and beta hydroxy acids, anti-inflammatories, hormonal therapies, as well as classic esthetic programs for acne will be profiled. Do not miss this useful information to help your clients or patients with acne conditions.
Dr Jayant Lokhande MD, MBA, CSO USA
UNIQUE TECHNOLOGY TO IDENTIFY NOVEL-COMPOSITES FOR AN ADVANCED EFFICACIOUS SKINCARE-MC03 11/10 4:00-5:00 PM EST
Medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) have a long history in dermatology and skincare, providing various benefits such as antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory effects, and skin-soothing properties. They have a rich tradition of use in traditional medicine and have gained popularity for their therapeutic and aromatic qualities. MAPs contain essential oils, which are volatile and produce fragrance. These oils can be extracted from different parts of the plant, including leaves, flowers, stems, roots, and seeds. Approximately 80000 MAPs have been identified based on taxonomic records. Notably, all these plants can be used in some capacity for skin and hair care. Advances in technology, including spectroscopy and chemometrics, are helping to identify and characterize MAPs rich in phytochemicals that have been used for centuries to prevent and treat various skin conditions. Some MAPs are already being utilized in industrial practices. So, what is the next step to determine the best MAP options for future advanced skincare and allocate resources for discovering new compounds? Join Dr. Lokande as he shares some exciting new technology in MAP development and research.
Dr. Erin Madigan-Fleck NMD, LE, LEI - USA
THE FACIAL AND SKIN AGING MATRIX
LECTURE #EMF01 11/9 10:30 -11:30 AM EST
Numerous internal and external factors impact cellular function and are associated with changes in facial morphology. Recently, these ideas have advanced to emphasize various synergistic relationships shaped by environmental, biological, and metabolic influences. Factors such as air pollution, chemicals, radiation, medications, nutrient deficiencies, and immune function—either alone or in combination—contribute to skin aging, glycation, and cellular senescence. As skin changes and the aging process progresses, it's evident that morphological transformations stem from multiple influences and deficiencies. This lecture will explore several anatomical and physiological changes in the aging facial skin, alterations within skin systems, and the onset of cellular senescence. Further discussions will address prevention, nutritional support, and non-invasive strategies for pro-aging
management in aesthetic care.
MODUS OPERANDI- THE RATIONALE & IMPLEMENTATION OF CASE STUDIES
LECTURE #EMF02 11/9 12:45 - 2:00 PM EST
Implementing consulting and assessment skills within aesthetic practices is becoming increasingly crucial for administrative, compliance, and liability reasons. Proper intake and documentation represent standard operating procedures vital for recording work, replicating results, tracking progress, and ensuring safety controls. Estheticians must diligently document skin presentations, treatment protocols, allergic reactions, products used, and the positive outcomes clients experience from treatments. Case studies may provide essential records of clinical practices, capturing interactions that help us understand the various factors influencing client care. They also inform improvements to protocols based on these insights. Additionally, case studies serve as valuable teaching tools, showcasing both common and rare cases that may present challenges to aestheticians. This lecture aims to clarify the foundational aspects of documentation, case study development, real-world examples of cases, and various forms and documents. Dr. Madigan-Fleck will highlight the significance of your Modus Operandi—achieving your unique approach and management style in your work.
ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY OF ESTHETIC MODALITIES
LECTURE -EMF03. 11/10 12:30-1:30 PM EST
Electrotherapeutics employs various implements to deliver different forms of electrical currents, impulses, and aspects of thermoregulation that significantly affect the skin and tissues. These effects may include stimulating metabolic activity in the mitochondria, tightening tissues, and facilitating mesoporation through the lipid bilayers of the skin, among other beneficial outcomes. We will introduce several concepts and the rationale behind using equipment efficiently and illustrate the aspects of their functionality, mechanics, and physics concerning frequently used and classical devices, including microdermabrasion, high frequency, ultrasonic, RF, galvanic, LED, and microcurrent.
Helena Pahava LE, Dermatocosmetologist - USA
STRUCTURAL PHYSIOGNOMY: SCULPTURAL FACIAL MASSAGE AND TREATMENTS FOR FACIAL TYPING
LECTURE #HP01. 11/9 4:30 - 5:30 PM EST
Structural anatomy encompasses levels down to microscopic details, including regional and systemic anatomy focused on organ systems. Physiognomy links physical traits to emotional expressions, studying muscle arrangements and reactions. In the 20th century, morphopsychology, introduced by a French psychiatrist, claimed that vital energies reflecting emotions and health shape facial forms. Similarly, Mien Shiang in Taoist medicine analyzes facial features for emotional and physiological insights. Facial shapes reveal age, fat distribution, texture, blood flow, lifestyle, and genetics, assessed through evaluation methods. Manual facial massage is vital in holistic esthetic and wellness treatments. Advanced massage uses anatomical dynamics, exploring facial "hallmarks" to establish it as a specialized technique for lifting, sculpting, drainage, and skin conditioning. This lecture will explore this technique and show how esthetic professionals can integrate various methods into their practice.
Rene´ Serbon -Global Corneotherapy Educator - CANADA
CORNEOTHERAPY: EXPLORING THE PATHWAY TO SKIN HOMEOSTASIS
LECTURE #RS01. 11/10. 1:30- 3:00 PM EST
This comprehensive presentation introduces attendees to corneotherapy as a revolutionary paradigm shift in skin treatment methodology. Moving beyond traditional "break down to build up" approaches, this session explores how working with the skin's inherent biological intelligence leads to superior, sustainable outcomes. René Serbon will guide participants through the scientific foundations of skin homeostasis, demonstrating how the stratum corneum functions as a biologically active tissue capable of orchestrating healing throughout the entire integument. The presentation emphasizes evidence-based assessment techniques, practical implementation strategies, and the critical importance of the gut-mind-skin connection in achieving optimal skin health.
Pamela Springer LE, LEI -USA
A VISUAL COMPARISON: SKIN CONDITIONS ACROSS DIVERSE SKIN TONES
LECTURE #PS01 11/9 2:00-3:00 PM EST
Estheticians must increasingly acknowledge the varied skin needs of individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds. To effectively address these skin types, it is essential to move beyond traditional techniques and basic teachings, focusing on the unique characteristics of skin physiology, genetics, and disorders in diverse multi-ethnic populations. Additionally, esthetic professionals should enhance their understanding of how these skin types react to topical products and which methods may help in addressing specific skin concerns. Armed with this knowledge, they can create tailored strategies to tackle the unique challenges these clients face, thereby providing enhanced support, confidence, and value in their esthetic services.
Dr. Katerina Steventon PhD UNITED KINGDOM
NEUROCOSMETICS AND PSYCHODERMATOLOGY-LECTURE #KS01. 11/9 5:30-6:30 PM EST
Maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier is vital for skin health. Research in psychodermatology indicates that skin health impacts mental well-being. Studies focusing on the “Brain and Skin Connection" cover fields such as psychology, endocrinology, skin neurobiology, skin inflammation, immunology, and pharmacology. Various research initiatives have shown that the skin serves as an important target organ, generating neuroendocrine, neurotransmitter, and neuropeptide signals that significantly affect skin biology and homeostasis. In times of stress, the skin may release inflammatory cytokines, triggering mast cell activation, histamine release, and skin rashes. This series of reactions can activate immune responses, leading to inflammation and various skin disorders. Join Dr. Steventon as she investigates the innovative field of neurocosmetics. The skin-brain axis underscores a complex relationship between the skin and specific formulations aimed at promoting skin health and wellness. Neurocosmetic products can physiologically influence skin sensory neuron activity, aligning with the wellness trend and positioning them at the cutting edge of skincare innovation.
Clive Witham L.A.c, MNc. - SPAIN
GUA SHA: BIOTRANSFORMATION IN MOTION
LECTURE CW01. 11/10 11:30-12:30 PM EST
Gua sha is a therapeutic practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine that involves scraping the skin with a specific tool to stimulate changes in the underlying tissues. It is employed for treating common ailments as well as both chronic and acute illnesses, and it also contributes to beauty enhancement through a technique called Facial Gua sha. Various forms of Gua sha concentrate on improving circulation, regulating anti-inflammatory responses, boosting immune function, and inducing structural changes within the body's biomatrix. While Gua sha may seem straightforward due to its repetitive motions, it is a sophisticated technique. Understanding Gua sha in depth requires studying the body's anatomical and physiological structures, alongside the processes occurring within. Join our renowned acupuncturist, global health expert, celebrated author, educator, and Gua sha specialist for this enlightening presentation on Gua sha and how ancient Chinese concepts of nature can transform our views on the face and beauty and health.
Margaret Walsh -B.Ed, Dip.Tchg, CIDESCO, ITEC NEW ZEALAND
THE BUSINESS OF SKIN ASSESSMENT – DEFINING THE FOCAL POINT OF TREATMENT
LECTURE #MW01 11/9 3:00-4:30 PM EST
Successful growth of an esthetic practice today relies on our ability to pinpoint our niche through concept development, effective marketing strategies, consistent methodologies, and the delivery of our services. Both quality and value are essential factors for client retention, along with implementing a clear skin care program and action plan. A vital component of any skin care routine is the skin assessment process, which highlights the esthetician’s skills, skin knowledge, and insight necessary for creating a tailored treatment plan for specific skin issues. A well-defined treatment plan plays a crucial role in the esthetician's revenue. A methodical skin assessment provides the fundamental basis from which all facial techniques arise, establishing the standards and criteria needed for choosing suitable modalities, treatment programs, professional product integration, and client home care.
Alexandra Zani LE, LEI - USA
CELLS AND SIGNALS- THE SKIN IN MOTION – LECTURE #AZ01 11/10 8:30-9:30 AM EST
This lecture will present valuable information designed to impart higher scientific intellect and stress the importance of understanding the complex activities and functional components of the skin. This presentation bridges science and the rationale behind the functioning of the skin while providing valuable insight into modern approaches for the assessment and management of the skin. Very important cellular relationships also depend on functioning lipids and proteins, the cornerstones of understanding the defense system of the epidermis and maintaining the integrity of the skin. Visual diagrams and illustrations make this dynamic presentation essential for the modern esthetician seeking to attain a “science edge” in their knowledge of skin physiology.