Challenges Faced by Male Massage Therapists

Male students in Massage Therapy programs may be shocked to learn how difficult it is to complete practicum hours. It is not unheard of that clients cancel appointments after learning their massage student is male.

This is largely due to gender bias and client preference. New clients may feel uneasy receiving massage from a male therapist, especially in services like Swedish or relaxation massage. Receiving a massage can be an intimate experience, often involving physical touch and a state of undress.

Many clients, especially female clients, may prefer female therapists due to comfort. As a result, it can be harder for male therapists to market themselves in a way that feels approachable and trustworthy.

Tips to Overcome These Challenges

Build trust through professionalism and education

Professionalism starts with setting boundaries. Maintain clear boundaries with visual and verbal cues.

Verbally communicate your next steps before acting on the steps. For example, say “I’m going to bend the knee” before bending the client’s knee. Always use professional language, and ensure informed consent. Visually, it’s a good idea to display your certifications and credentials in an area where clients can see.

Use your website, social media, to explain your techniques, training, and approach to care. If you do not have an online presence, educate clients during your consultations. You won’t believe how many professionals gain trust this way!

Special Promotions

Encourage hesitant clients to try a short session or offer discounts to first-time clients. This will give you a chance to present yourself as a healer. Although we do not recommend discounting your services too often, offering promotions that allow enough time for your clients to enjoy will help you grow over the years.

Specialize in Niche Services

Consider focusing on niche specialties. For example, sports massage, deep tissue, or therapeutic work. In these types of specialties male therapists are often preferred often due to their upper body strength. “Strong Hands, Gentle Healing” comes to mind.

While male massage therapists face a gender bias, there are ways to work around these challenges. Our advice to male massage therapy students? Start working on your brand!

EXECUTIVE SPA GROUP

What is it?

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) started back in 1973. Its original purpose was to allow Canadian employers to hire high-skilled foreign workers to address specific labour shortages when qualified Canadians or permanent residents were not available. More specifically, the program was designed to address shortages in agriculture, hospitality, and the care sectors.

How do employers participate in the TFWP?

Employers must complete a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). They must be a legitimate business and be able to prove difficulty in filling employment vacancies. In other words, they must advertise the job for at least 4 consecutive weeks in the 3 months prior to applying. Plus, their job advertisements must appear on three platforms, including the Government of Canada Job Bank.

In addition, there is a non-refundable application fee that employers have to pay for an LMIA of $1,000 CAD per position. If approved, the LMIA is valid for 6 months, during which the foreign worker must apply for a work permit. The LMIA is employer- and job-specific, meaning the worker cannot switch jobs without a new LMIA.

Benefits of the TFWP

The Government of Canada does not provide direct financial support, however, there are indirect supports. For example, the Settlement Program helps employers integrate skilled immigrants into the workforce through training and awareness programs. Another example is the Foreign Credential Recognition offers wage subsidies (up to $10,000) for onboarding skilled newcomers in specific sectors.

What’s all the fuss about?

Canada’s TFWP has faced growing criticism over the years. It has been trending recently being viewed by some as problematic for both workers and the broader Canadian labour market. Some of you may be wandering, what is this all about?

Amongst the most popular reasons are serious claims of worker exploitation and abuse. Another reason is fraud and misuse, where employers falsely claim no Canadians are available for jobs in order to hire TFWs at lower wages.

The most recent reason is youth unemployment and wage suppression. People argue the program contributes to higher youth unemployment and suppresses wages by allowing employers to hire cheaper foreign labor instead of investing in the local workforce. In other words, the program is being misused.

Is there a TFWP Impact on Alberta’s Beauty Industry?

In Alberta, the beauty and personal care sector often face staffing challenges due to a shortage of skilled estheticians and technicians. The TFWP has historically helped fill these gaps, particularly in rural or high-demand urban areas.

The beauty industry is part of the low-wage stream, which has seen a significant rise in LMIA applications due to labour shortages and high turnover. Also, employers in rural and smaller urban centers are more likely to use the TFWP to staff salons and spas where local recruitment is difficult.

References

(https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/36-28-0001/2023012/article/00005-eng.htm)

(https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/temporary-foreign-workers-business-alberta-1.7243593)

(https://amnesty.ca/temporary-foreign-workers-report/)

EXECUTIVE SPA GROUP

Polish Your Glamorous Resume

We often find clients drafting their resumes need a little direction when it comes to the placement of information in the document. Understandably so, after all, what is the difference between highlights of qualifications, transferable skills, and technical skills?

Creating your resume is easy once you understand the difference between these categories.

Highlights of Qualifications

Like movie highlights show the best parts of a movie, your resume highlights your top achievements. This category is where you put any experiences that make you stand out. For example, a Hairstylist that wants to highlight their impressive amount of experience might say, “Licensed Hairstylist with 15+ years of experience in high-end salons.”

On the other hand, a Hairstylist with less experience cutting hair but very skillful in selling product might say, “Recognized for increasing retail product sales by 40% through personalized recommendations.”

Transferable Skills

In the beauty industry, transferable skills are soft skills that apply across various roles in salons, spas, retail, or freelance beauty work. In other words, these skills are useful regardless of the environment/job setting.

A common example that are very valuable in the beauty industry include Customer Service skills. This is the ability to build trust with clients. Examples include learning the name, story, and preferences of each client.

Another common example is Time Management. Arriving to work and starting the appointment on time shows the client respect. The ability to manage appointments efficiently is very important in the beauty industry.

Technical Skills

Technical skills are specific, hands-on skills and certifications relevant to beauty services. Depending on the type of resume you choose, technical skills can be placed under the “education” category, or can be placed in a category of its own.

Examples include Haircutting and colouring techniques, Skincare treatments (facials, dermaplaning, chemical peels) etc.

While product knowledge is not technical in nature, it is considered a technical skill as it is a job-specific and individuals often receive training in specific product lines. Examples include Dermalogica, Matrix, etc.

Another example of technical skills includes the use of equipment such as microcurrent devices, and the correct disposal of waste materials, such as dermaplaning blades.

Good luck!

EXECUTIVE SPA GROUP

Do Nurses Require Additional Training to Administer Cosmetic Injections?

Nurses in Alberta must have additional education beyond entry-level training to perform cosmetic injections. Training must include facial anatomy, injection techniques, complication management, and ethical practice.

Injectable esthetic therapies fall under restricted activities in Alberta, Canada. In other words, nurses must be authorized and competent to perform these therapies. Plus, you must follow a scope of practice guidelines.

Which training course should I choose?

Nurses have a few options when it comes to selecting a cosmetic injector trainer. When comparing training programs, it’s important to look for a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.

Hands-On Training with Live Models

Programs should include multiple rounds of supervised injections on live models. This provides a realistic clinical simulation where nurses learn to conduct consultations, assessments, and post treatment care.

In addition, administering injections using real products (not saline) prepares you for real clinical environments, thereby reducing anxiety and improving confidence. Injecting Botox and fillers requires precise accuracy. Hands-on sessions allow you to receive immediate feedback and correction

Finally, seeing before-and-after results on live models helps you understand how different products behave in tissue as well as how facial anatomy affects outcomes.

Licensed Certification

You may find yourself drawn to a few different trainers. You can weigh the balance of pros and cons as you evaluate essential elements. However, one element that is non-negotiable is the trainer’s recognition by governing bodies.

Ensure the program offers certification recognized by your local nursing board or regulatory body.

Regulatory Bodies for Nurse Injectors in Alberta

1. College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA)

2. College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA)

3. College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Alberta (CRPNA)

Each college sets standards for scope of practice, education, and ethical conduct. Nurses must contact their respective college for guidance on injectable aesthetic therapies 1

Relevant Legislation & Regulations

These laws define what constitutes a health service versus a personal service, and outline the conditions under which nurses can perform injectable procedures.

• Health Professions Act

• Health Professions Restricted Activity Regulation

• Personal Services Regulation

EXECUTIVE SPA GROUP
BEAUTY INDUSTRY CAREER AND EMPLOYMENT
(780) 604-2772
info@executivespagroup.com

REFERENCES

https://nurses.ab.ca/media/4j3ffv13/injectable-aesthetic-therapies-practice-advice.pdf)

https://www.clpna.com/lpn-knowledge-hub/aesthetic-nursing-practice-regulatory-matters-for-albertas-nurses/

https://nurses.ab.ca/media/4j3ffv13/injectable-aesthetic-therapies-practice-advice.pdf

https://nationallaserinstitute.com/blog/cme-injector/nurse-injector-training-your-top-questions-answered/?OR=OfficeMobile

https://camaesthetics.ca/packages/the-complete-injector-package-for-nurses/?OR=OfficeMobile

https://www.cbamedicine.com/blog/who-can-perform-botox-and-fillers-in-canada/

Top 3 Dermal Fillers on the Market

Dermal fillers have become a popular choice for those looking to smooth wrinkles, add volume, and enhance their natural features. With a multitude of brands available, it can be challenging to determine which option is best suited for your clients’ needs and goals.

Ultimately, the “best” dermal filler brand depends on your clients’ specific concerns, desired outcomes, and budget. Factors such as the area you are treating, the severity of wrinkles or volume loss, and your clients’ individual skin characteristics will all play a role in determining which filler will deliver the best results for them.

Let’s delve into three of the leading dermal filler brands: Juvéderm, Restylane, and Radiesse, comparing their pricing and effectiveness to help you make a more informed decision.

*Juvéderm:* The Versatile Hyaluronic Acid Filler

Juvéderm is a well-known and widely used family of hyaluronic acid (HA) based dermal fillers. Juvéderm products vary in their thickness and cross-linking, making them suitable for addressing a range of concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to deeper folds and volume loss in areas like the cheeks and lips.

Generally, Juvéderm treatments in Alberta can range from approximately $500 to $900 per syringe. Prices can fluctuate based on the specific Juvéderm product used and the amount required to achieve the desired outcome. While often similarly priced to Restylane, some Juvéderm formulations designed for longer-lasting results might be at the higher end of this range.

Juvéderm fillers are known for their smooth, natural-looking results. Their effectiveness depends on the specific product used and the area treated.

For instance, thinner formulations are excellent for delicate areas like under the eyes or for subtle lip enhancement, while thicker ones provide more significant volume in the cheeks or can effectively soften nasolabial folds. The longevity of Juvéderm results typically ranges from 6 to 18 months, depending on the product and individual metabolism.

Restylane: Another Trusted Hyaluronic Acid Option

Restylane is another leading brand of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers with a strong track record of safety and efficacy. Similar to Juvéderm, Restylane offers a diverse portfolio of products tailored to different esthetic needs, including lip enhancement, wrinkle reduction, and facial contouring.

In Alberta, Restylane treatments generally fall within a similar price range as Juvéderm, typically between $500 and $900 per syringe. Again, the specific product and the number of syringes needed will influence the final cost.

Restylane fillers are popular due to their natural-looking results and versatility. Different Restylane products are designed with varying gel particle sizes, allowing practitioners to select the ideal filler for specific areas and concerns. The duration of results is generally 6 to 12 months, although some newer formulations may offer longer-lasting effects.

Radiesse: The Collagen-Stimulating Powerhouse

Radiesse stands apart from Juvéderm and Restylane as it is a calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) based filler. CaHA is a mineral-like compound found naturally in our bones. Radiesse not only provides immediate volume but also stimulates the body’s natural collagen production, leading to longer-term improvement in skin firmness and elasticity.

Radiesse treatments in Alberta may be slightly more expensive per syringe compared to Juvéderm and Restylane, typically ranging from $650 to $1,100. However, it’s important to consider its longer-lasting effects and collagen-stimulating benefits.

Radiesse is particularly effective for addressing deeper wrinkles and folds, such as nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and for restoring volume in the cheeks and hands. While it provides immediate filling, it can continue to improve over time. The effects can often last for 12 to 18 months, making it a potentially cost-effective option in the long run for some individuals.

EXECUTIVE SPA GROUP
Beauty Industry Careers and Employment
(780) 604-2772
info@executivespagroup.com

WORKS CITED

https://www.doctormedica.co/blog/botox-vs-juvederm-vs-restylane-costs-effectiveness-and-duration

https://drmajidshah.com/non-surgical-cosmetic-tips/restylane-vs-juvederm/

https://www.medicalsparx.com/radiesse-vs-restylane/#:~:text=Radiesse%2C%20with%20its%20calcium%20hydroxylapatite,%2C%20folds%2C%20and%20volume%20loss.