This module, originally prepared for University College London, explores the intricate communication network between the gastrointestinal system, the nervous system, and the skin. The gut–brain–skin axis has become a central focus in understandingthe systemic drivers of aesthetic and dermatological conditions.
This module focuses on mediators of gut-brain-skin signalling pathways linked to common skin presentations such as acne, rosacea and psoriasis. By addressing these pathways, practitioners can move beyond symptomatic treatments to target underlying mechanisms that contribute to both skin health and overall wellbeing.
Practitioners will learn:
- The role of the microbiome in health – how microbial diversity influences digestive health, cognitive function, mood, and skin physiology.
- How gut dysbiosis triggers systemic inflammation, leading to metabolic and dermatological presentations.
- The gut–brain–skin axis in clinical practice – the complex interplay between dysbiosis, stress, and inflammatory pathways in conditions such as rosacea, acne, and psoriasis.
- Neuroinflammation and neuroendocrine signalling – the impact of stress, mood disorders, and HPA-axis dysregulation on skin barrier function, sensitivity, and inflammation.
- Dietary strategies for skin health – the impact of nutrition on the gut microbiome, including anti-inflammatory diets, polyphenols, and the role of fibre.
- Prebiotics and probiotics – evidence-based applications for modulating gut flora to improve skin outcomes.
- Therapeutic strategies – nutritional and integrative approaches that target the gut–brain–skin axis to enhance patient outcomes in aesthetic settings.
Key Takeaway
This module equips clinicians to recognise systemic drivers of skin concerns and to implement holistic, evidence-based interventions that support both aesthetic outcomes and patient health more broadly
Perimenopause is a period of profound hormonal, metabolic, and inflammatory change that directly impacts the skin, body composition, and overall wellbeing. This module, originally prepared for University College London, provides a comprehensive overview of the physiological shifts that underpin aesthetic changes during this stage of life, with an emphasis on how practitioners can support both aesthetic and systemic health through evidence-based interventions.
During perimenopause, the natural decline in oestrogen has a profound impact on skin and overall health leading to reduced collagen and elastin, drier and thinner skin, impaired barrier function, pigmentation changes, and shifts in fat distribution. These hormonal changes also interact with metabolic and inflammatory pathways, contributing to weight gain, reduced muscle mass, and increased inflammation. At the same time, many of the biological hallmarks of ageing - such as mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and cellular senescence - become more apparent, creating clear targets for nutritional and lifestyle interventions that can support both aesthetic outcomes and systemic wellbeing.
Practitioners will learn:
- Common aesthetic presentations during perimenopause with a focus on skin aging.
- The role of estrogen in gut and skin health and the pathways through which estrogen decline accelerates skin aging and weight gain.
- The impact of estrogen deficiency on the hallmarks of aging – in particular epigenetics, mitochondrial function and nutrient sensing - and how this translates to variations in the rate of aging between women of the same age.
- The interplay between hormones, immune function, metabolism and brain health.
- The impact of neuroinflammation in stress-related skin disorders.
- Therapeutic fasting protocols targeting the hallmarks of ageing to delay and/or reverse visible and physical decline.
- Evidence for phytonutrients, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and micronutrients in supporting skin and systemic health.
- Dietary recommendations to optimise aesthetic outcomes during perimenopause.
Key Takeaway
This module equips practitioners with a holistic framework for understanding and managing the aesthetic and systemic effects of perimenopause. By addressing the consequences of hormonal fluctuations and targeting the hallmarks of ageing, clinicians can provide personalised, evidence-based interventions that extend beyond surface treatments to optimise aesthetic outcomes in this patient demographic.
Injectable nutrient therapies are an emerging area of interest in aesthetic and integrative medicine. While oral supplementation remains foundational, injectable delivery can be considered when rapid repletion, enhanced bioavailability, or targeted therapeutic effects are required.
This module provides a comprehensive overview of the evidence base, safety considerations, and clinical applications for commonly used nutrients in injectable form: Vitamin D, B-vitamins, Vitamin C, Glutathione, NAD⁺, and NAD⁺ boosters.
Unlike other courses, this is an independent overview of injectable nutrient therapies, ensuring that you receive unbiased information on their role in aesthetic and integrative medicine.
Practitioners will learn:
- The physiology of nutrient processing and the organ-specific and/or systemic benefits of nutrients.
- The mechanisms of action and indications for injectable nutrients relevant to skin, energy, and metabolic health based on current evidence.
- The indications and key relevant learnings for injectable:
- NAD and NAD boosters
- Glutathione
- Vitamin C
- B-vitamins
- Vitamin D
- How to perform a comprehensive patient assessment, including testing, precautions and contraindications for each nutrient.
- Medico-legal, safety and regulatory considerations, as well as ethical prescribing in an aesthetic setting.
- Where oral and injectable approaches may complement each other in patient management
- Where to find practical training and reputable suppliers
Key Takeaways
This module provides practitioners with an independent overview of the science and practicalities behind implementing injectable nutrients into practice, supporting informed and safe decision-making.