Cosmetology has existed for centuries — even Queen Cleopatra invented unusual skin and hair care methods, but all ancient techniques were focused more on external beauty. Today, cosmetology is more closely linked to medicine, applying scientific diagnostic and treatment methods to improve both appearance and internal health.
According to Viktoriia Lykova, a dermatovenerologist and cosmetologist with more than 15 years of experience, owner of cosmetology studios across multiple countries, and author of scientific publications, modern professionals should rely on scientific advancements and provide their patients with comfortable treatment environments. Her rigorous approach has earned her the title of “Cosmetologist of the Year” and professional recognition in many countries. In this article, Viktoriia shares her methods and explains how they help her manage several clinics.
Innovation as a Professional Responsibility
In 2024, approximately 38 million cosmetic procedures were performed worldwide, a 40% increase from 2020. The majority of these procedures, 20.5 million in particular, were non-invasive or minimally invasive. Viktoriia Lykova observes the same trend in her practice, prompting her to develop her own non-invasive express rejuvenation protocols that deliver fast, visible results with minimal intervention.
Viktoriia’s proprietary methods have set a new format for Fast-Ritual Beauty. One half-hour procedure produces noticeable results due to its comprehensive action, but most importantly, it’s a non-invasive, safe method that protects patients’ skin and minimizes risks. Invasive cosmetology could gradually become a thing of the past if cosmetologists adopt such methods.
“I start with skin diagnostics using smart devices and upload the data into an AI program that selects personalized skincare products in precise dosages for this specific client. In the studio, I use a combination of these formulations designed to work on several levels at once: improving blood circulation, relieving muscle tension, and stimulating skin cell renewal,” explains Viktoriia.
Previously used primarily in medical research and rehabilitation, these technologies have now become part of everyday skincare, delivering visible and long-lasting results without invasive procedures. Viktoriia’s personalized method has created a new, high-speed beauty service segment with proven effectiveness and is already being used by many of her colleagues in salons. Up to 70% of Viktoriia’s clients return for this procedure because it requires minimal intervention and delivers long-lasting results after a single treatment. This achievement earned Viktoriia Lykova the “Best Innovation in Non-Invasive Express Cosmetology” award in 2023.
Safety and Evidence-Based Practice as the Core Standard
A cosmetologist’s ability to gain international recognition and open multiple studios in different countries is also determined by a strong commitment to high safety standards. Viktoriia Lykova studied the physical and psycho-emotional effects of aesthetic procedures with her clients to refine her protocols. The results of this work were reflected in Viktoriia’s scientific publications, which now help colleagues in her field refine their own practices.
In the article “Psychoemotional Changes in Clients after Aesthetic Procedures,” Viktoriia analyzed patients’ experiences before and after botulinum toxin therapy, laser therapy, chemical peels, etc. She noted positive effects: an increased self-esteem, reduced anxiety, and better body perception, but some patients also experienced discrepancies between expectations and reality. The study’s findings help better prepare patients for procedures at Viktoriia’s studio.
In another publication, she examined the consequences of repeated BoNT-A injections and the associated risks. Viktoriia came to the crucial conclusion that some patients require more careful monitoring after such procedures, and she not only incorporated regular monitoring systems into her botulinum toxin treatment protocol but also helped some of her colleagues implement a similar approach in their salons.
“As a beauty studio owner, I regularly take part in advanced training programs such as IMCAS, the FACE Conference, Allergan, and Solta Medical. This ensures safety, high standards of care, and builds the trust clients expect,” Viktoriia notes.
Results Beyond the Treatment Room: International Practice and Expert Contribution
Over the years, Viktoriia Lykova has built a career as both a professional cosmetologist and an entrepreneur. She opened studios in her home country and in Buenos Aires, supplied invasive therapy products to other specialists, and was invited to join several professional associations, including the Eurasian Beauty Guild, the “KIT” Business Association, and the Beauty Industry Association of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
“I worked in completely different parts of the world. It wasn’t easy, but the main lesson I learned is that any method must be adapted to cultural differences and client expectations in each country. This is how cosmetology can become both a calling and a thriving business,” Viktoriia shares.
She occasionally trains young professionals and serves as a jury member for international competitions. From 2020 to 2022, she evaluated the work of medical students from top medical universities — the Russian University of Medicine, the Russian National Research Medical University, and the First Moscow State Medical University. Viktoriia was invited as an experienced cosmetologist and dermatovenerologist, an author of scientific papers, whose expertise could help the younger generation of specialists better navigate the industry.
Conclusion: Why Recognition Follows Consistency, Ethics, and Impact
Professional recognition in both medicine and business is the result of years of research, experimentation, and continuous learning. Viktoriia Lykova earned the title of “Cosmetologist of the Year” and other awards thanks to her scientific research, useful experiments, and innovations that will shape the future of the entire industry. She continues to share her approach with colleagues and young students to make cosmetology safer, more comfortable, and more advanced.