Insight: APAN Tina Viney and Qi beauty™ Founder Kathy Pedersen talk beauty-wellness parameters

APAN CEO Tina Viney and Qi beauty founder Kathy Pedersen discuss how Qi beauty™ technology is setting parameters for the new shape of the beauty-wellness industry 

APJ: Kathy explain to us what is Static Magnetic Field and how does it work in the area of skin rejuvenation?

KP: All cells in the body share common components, regardless of their type. One of the common constituents of all cells are ions.  Ions are positively and negatively charged particles that conduct electro-magnetic pulses from within the cell. The electro-magnetic pulses allow the cell to function. Without ions, a cell can not live - nor could we! 

In a normal healthy cell, the ions are distributed around the cell with all of the positive ions on one side and the negative ions on the opposing side. The ions which live outside of the cell in the tissues will align with those inside of the cell so that opposing poles are together with the cell membrane between them.  This allows fluid, oxygen and nutrients (fluid exchange) to move freely in and out of the cell, while maintaining the natural balance within the cell (homeostasis). 

In a diseased or ageing cell, the positive and negative ions do not stay on opposing sides of the cell. They are disrupted and scatter randomly around the cell. At the same time the ions on the outside of the cell membrane also become scattered as they try to find their opposing pole, this results in cellular imbalance. Extra fluid from the tissues outside the cell is able to penetrate the cell which in turn pushes vital nutrients, hormones and electrolytes (salts) out of the cell.

The cells ability to function is greatly reduced and cellular degeneration begins, which if not corrected will lead to the cell dying prematurely. 

The lipid bilayer, always known to be selectively permeable, is instantly responsive to SMF. Increased permeation of both hydro and lipophilic substances triggers increased amino acid, enzyme and neuropeptide activity. This is seen within 15 to 20 minutes of application of the SMF, as skin firms to touch and gains bounce 

APJ: Are there any studies that validate the outcomes of SMF?

KP: Yes, studies in the field of Magnetic Stimulation in health application, particularly the effect on a high gradient magnetic field have been documented to effect magnetocatalytic activity. In application, we apply a static magnetic field using high-precision positioning of Micro-magnets to create varying magnetic-gradients. 

The explanation for the effects of static magnetic field (SMF) on skin and underlying tissues, we must employ a quantum view of physical tissue alongside the Newtonian or mechanical view, which means that it sits between science and quantum physics.   

Some studies are indicating  research is giving us an integrated understanding of the skin as a neuroimmunoendocrine organ during health and disease, and the treatment of many skin diseases.  

APJ:  You discuss this technique as an integrative approach. What other modalities can it be integrated with?

KP: Think of Static Magnetic Field Techniques as supplementation. The techniques are used in combination with any treatment that initiates an inflammatory response or disturbs the barrier function of skin. SMF treatments are also stand alone anti-age systems. Static magnetic stimulation is a proven method for wound healing and is integrated to prepare skin for treatment or to assist recovery post treatment. Integrating SMF treatments with clinic treatments offers clients a unique experience of beauty for skin health.

The techniques push results even further. It is restorative. For example, supplementing a micro-dermabrasion treatment with SMF techniques delivers substantial results and helps to restore TEWL (trans epidermal water loss) immediately.

APJ:  What treatment outcomes can you expect from this procedure and how many treatments do you need to established a noteworthy outcome?

KP: After one treatment skin appears brighter, complexion is clearer, redness is diminished (due to the vaso-normative effect), volume is increased and there is a decrease in the depth of lines.

The outcome is the initiation of qi circulation (which is achieved in every person) and the rise of fluids to deliver natural moisturising factors. We guarantee a visible difference after one treatment and have a strong home - care philosophy to maintain cumulative results. Treatment frequency is related to age, health/lifestyle and skin condition. Treatments are progressive and based on sustaining the energy of cells and strengthening of skin to raise it to a higher regenerative state. Historically, clients are committed to maintaining their qi circulation for the visual anti-age benefits. 

APJ:  In terms of treatment outcomes how do they compare with other technologies such as IPL or Laser and can and should they be combined or used as an adjunct treatment?

KP: When used in combination or as an adjunct to other technologies, SMF techniques are an effective, and low risk way to secure a better outcome.  SMF techniques are not an alternative to botox, or IPL. There are specific techniques to support botox, initiate tissue reorganisation, restore skin flora and to detoxify without any downtime for clients.Integrating a SMF treatment which is essentially passive in it’s delivery with substantial results is a valuable point of difference and enhances clinic results.

There are specific techniques to support botox, initiate tissue reorganisation, restore skin flora and to detoxify without any downtime for clients.

APJ:  Are their any risks and contra-indications to SMF treatments and who are the best candidates for these treatments?

A SMF treatment is contraindicated for people wearing a pacemaker, and in pregnancy. An allergy to gold is also contraindicated as the Micro-Magnets are gold plated. Gold has a tonifying effect on skin, therefore is the chosen plating for the rare earth micro-magnets. The best candidates, would be anyone looking for skin repair, anti-ageing, skin congestion, diffused redness, inflammatory conditions, fine lines, volume loss, fluid retention, blemishes, irregular skin cycles. 

APJ:  Can SMF treatments benefit other conditions such as pain management or ptosis conditions such as Bell's Palsy in improving neurological functions of muscle tone? 

KP: SMF treatments include techniques for conditions such as bells palsy, trigeminal neuralgia, skin grafting, nerve damage (severed/damaged nerves), facial pain related to TMJ, scarring, pain and inflammatory conditions. These Advanced Techniques are generally practiced by Acupuncturists who have undertaken the Advanced Practitioner Training which usually requires that a practitioner has operated as a Level 1 & 2 SMF practitioner for at least one year before undergoing the training. 

APJ:  How long does it take to train as an SMF practitioner

KP: We see the shift in the wellness industry to integrate holistic health therefore are offering specialist training to Aestheticians in Australia and NZ. The initial training is designed for integration with existing technologies and provides the protocols for anti-ageing, detoxification and skin conditions.

Speciality Training in Static Magnetic Field Techniques is available in Australia and in Canada with certified Qi beauty™ practitioners.