Bringing over 10 years of experience as a cosmetic nurse in Dubai’s premier clinics, RN Banafsheh Ghorbi (Bani) has expanded her career as a laser therapist trainer at the Institute of Medical Aesthetics Dubai (IMA). Her sectorial excellence is strengthened by the experience of her dual roles.
Bani, The Trainer-Cum-Aesthetic Nurse
Bani is also a certified laser operator, boasting vast experience training in the field of laser hair reduction, laser aesthetic procedures, chemical peels, microdermabrasion or mesotherapy or cosmeceuticals. Let’s hear from Bani, Trainer-cum-Aesthetic Nurse.
What Inspires You To Be A trainer Today?
Since medical aesthetics is not taught in universities, even dermatologists and other physicians are simply not conversant with many of the protocols and technologies which one must know and understand well if they are to operate safely in the laser aesthetics field. Prior to my career in medical aesthetics I worked as a nurse in the intensive care department. Here, I saw almost every imaginable worst-case scenario in medicine. I entered the medical aesthetic world fearlessly, but I was also clueless. I realized the importance of proper knowledge and understanding of the science. From then on, I wanted to learn everything I could and transfer this knowledge of this fast paced medical aesthetics science to others.
Tell Us In A Nutshell, What Do You Teach And How This Benefits The Student’s Experience?
I teach the fundamentals and science of lasers, and what one must know to excel in the world of aesthetic medical lasers. I take pride in giving the lectures and teaching actual `hands-on` skills. This is imperative for our students to apply their knowledge in the most realistic setting they can.
Our laser training program starts with a little skin anatomy moving to basic laser physics, tissues effects when laser hits the skin and inclusive information regarding hair removals and their available technologies in the market. On day 3 we move to topics of skin Rejuvenation in general and Acne, vascular lesions, pigmentation and tattoo removals in detail. Day 4 of our training is our famous “barbeque day” when we study and practice fractional technologies, ablative and non-ablative. We practice and perform treatments with Erbium, CO2 fractional resurfacing treatments and radiofrequency with micro plasma resurfacing on real patients. Our participants have always considered it the most interesting part of the laser course and it stays with them forever. Our last day’s topic is contouring technologies, for face and body. We study tightening treatments as well as cellulite and fat removal technologies. Every day of the course there is theory in the morning and hand-on live models in the afternoon.
What Training Expertise Do You Feel You Can Uniquely Offer In Order To Upgrade Their Medical Aesthetic Artistry?
My years as a cosmetic nurse seeing clients with a variety of conditions and needs has given me the confidence to assess what’s best for them and also to suggest a viable treatment protocol based on the superb combination training, we were given by our founder, Dr. Maria Khattar. This practical interface with clients reflects a key element I now bring to my students at IMA. After all, skills transfer in terms of the technologies and protocols is fine but knowing how to mix and match for the safest and most effective outcomes is my unique training expertise.
How Do You Manage Student Expectations In Order To Avoid Disappointment?
Well, managing student expectations can be a challenge. I do try to adopt certain strategies to ensure my students are clear about what they want in order to avoid disappointment. Being super alert at all times is a must. Education is repetition. It is simple, but sometimes not easy to ensure that students clearly understand the exact nature of any course they choose, and realise the practical hands-on element is as vital as the theory related to knowledge about lasers. They must learn about both to become truly proficient in this field. It requires passion, coupled with commitment.
I find that the only way to avoid disappointment is by providing my students with all the possible information I can and also by sharing realistic client scenarios. By sharing my own client experiences, they become educated in a realistic way that will serve them well in their own practices. I try my best to prepare them for anything that may come their way.
Why Is It Vital To Take Advantage Of Hands-On Training In Your Field?
This is an amazingly unique opportunity that isn’t offered at many other trainings. It gives the students the chance to apply what they learn in the lectures into practice. In the field of aesthetic medicine, learning through practical experience is truly the most efficient way to master the techniques and treatments we educate our students in.
What Is Your Assessment Of Your Field In Dubai In Terms Of Scope, Expertise, Challenges And Potential?
I know that as Laser Technicians we are very much in demand at the moment, especially in Dubai. This gives us a clear advantage and the upper hand with employers. I am pleased that I get to train fellow nurses and physicians in the Laser Therapist and Laser Technician course. It truly opens up so many opportunities for them within the medical aesthetic field.
In terms of challenges in my field, I would say it is the challenge of building up your career and name. There is an important element to making it big in this industry and that is, marketing yourself intelligently through social media and through networking.
How Has Your Dedication To Scientific Study And Self-Improvement Translated Into Professional Fulfillment?
Through my own continuous studies, as someone who has a masters in Healthcare management, I can ensure my patients and students get the most up-to-date care and knowledge. Seeing my students advance and my patients cared for undeniably fulfills me.
What’s At The Forefront Of Aesthetic Lasers?
Indeed, the world of medical aesthetics is progressing rapidly in terms of popular acceptance and range of treatments. Definitely at the forefront at the moment are intense pulsed light treatments (IPL) and Q-Switch lasers. IPL is primarily used to reduce the signs of aging or remove unwanted hair. Nevertheless, other uses include reducing the appearance of scars, lightening darker patches of skin, and improving the appearance of spider veins. It works by delivering multiple wavelengths, meaning it has the capacity to treat a larger area of skin in a shorter time than laser therapy. The Q-Switch laser, on the other hand, is a non-invasive laser that creates high-intensity pulsed beam light. This laser is typically used for skin rejuvenation treatments. At IMA we use Alma’s IPL which is called AFT and Alma’s Q-Switch which is called ClearLift, these are definitely currently the most popular treatments in aesthetic clinics.
Bani, The Woman
As a guest trainer who flies into Dubai every month, what satisfaction do you get from this job?
Meeting people from all over the world, from diverse professions, revisiting their passion for their work in a clinic, and helping to inspire them into enhancing their careers. It’s hard work, but I love working directly with medical professionals rather than just the patients like I used to when I was a cosmetic nurse in clinics.
What Disease Scares You The Most? Why?
As a frequent traveller, COVID-19 is a concern.
Do You Exercise? What Is The Ideal Exercise Prescription To Look Good And Feel Great?
I have been a swimming coach and lifeguard for many years and adore swimming. This is my preferred exercise and relax routine.
What Is Your Pampering & Relax Routine?
I love to indulge in the occasional massage, both for relaxation purposes and for my overall health. As someone that is busy and on my feet on a daily basis, it is a great way to relieve tension. Besides my massages, I thoroughly enjoy reading as one of my forms of relaxation. In particular, I like to read scientific articles and books as I find them intriguing and enjoy furthering my knowledge.
In What Ways Has COVID Changed Your Thinking In Terms Of How You Envisage Your Practice, Living Your Best Life And Enhancing Your Own Wellbeing?
I have felt more grateful, and more aware of our limits and possibilities since COVID-19 has begun. COVID-19 has very much changed people’s habits and lives worldwide. I am very grateful that my field of work is one of the few that have not been too affected by the pandemic. Of course, I follow the regulations to ensure my patients’ safety but the demand for laser therapies remains high.
I have definitely been focusing more on my own wellbeing too. I have always been one to lead a healthy life but with COVID it has opened my eyes to the true importance of this.
