Michael Kurov

Michael Kurov

Shannon Esau. Rhonda Allison Cosmeceuticals

Shannon Esau was raised in the professional aesthetic industry –– inspired and mentored by her mother, Rhonda Allison, founder and CEO of the globally recognized brand, Rhonda Allison Cosmeceuticals. Today, Esau serves as the director of education and sales for the company, and in her 17-plus years in the industry, she has become widely respected for her devotion to furthering the education of skin care professionals, empowering them to remain at the forefront of their careers.

Did You Know? Skin makes up about 16 percent of a person’s total body weight.

By systematically dropping certain essential oils along the spine of dry skin and delicately stroking the oils across the back of the spine to create a goose bump response, the essential oils drain into the pores of the skin where the nerves of the parasympathetic nervous system will awaken the limbic system.


Amra Lear

February is National Grapefruit Month!

More than just a slightly bitter cousin of the orange, grapefruit is packed with vitamins that promote heart health, cancer prevention, and anti-aging. Because there are so many dermatological and wellness benefits, many skin care product lines incorporate grapefruit extract in their formulations.

Dos and Don’ts: Sun Exposure

Do:

Encourage clients to seek evaluation for new moles or freckles that form after substantial time in the sun.

Cutera Announces Appointment CFO

Cutera, Inc. announced the appointment of Sandra Gardiner to the position of executive vice president and chief financial officer. Gardiner has been serving in this role on a consulting basis since July 12, 2017. Immediately prior to joining Cutera, Gardiner served as vice president and finance and chief financial officer with Tria Beauty, Inc., a medical device manufacturer of laser-based aesthetic devices. Gardiner worked with Tria Beauty from April of 2015 until its acquisition April of 2016. Gardiner has over 27 years of experience in the life science industry with 19 years specifically in the medical device industry. In addition to Tria Beauty, Gardiner has been chief financial officer of two publically traded entities, as well as three privately held companies.

CONAIR'S LEANDRO RIZZUTO PASSES

On December 5, 2017, Conair Corporation announced the passing of Leandro P. Rizzuto, co-founder and chairman of the board. After battling a long fight with pancreatic cancer, Rizzuto passed on December 3, surrounded by his family. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our leader,” said Ronald T. Diamond, president of Conair Corporation. “Rizzuto was a man who loved life and people and deeply loved our company. He was our leader, mentor, and teacher, encouraging those around him to always strive to do more than we thought we could do, and be greater than we thought we could be.” The company will grieve the absence of its leader. Diamond says the company will honor him by continuing to develop innovative new products that use emerging technology to improve the everyday lives and businesses of Conair consumers and professional customers all over the world. “It is what Lee would want us to do,” Diamond says. “And we will do it!"

Sentient Lasers and MedPro Collaborate on Blue Dot Certification

Sentient Lasers announced its partnership with the longest running seller of pre-owned lasers, MedPro. The company adopted Sentient Lasers’ Blue Dot Certification in March 2017. Sentient Lasers’ proprietary Blue Dot Certification is a 20-point inspection created to ensure quality, longevity, transparency, and safety for aesthetic lasers by following a rigorous refurbishing process. Sentient Lasers’ Blue Dot Certification offers MedPro customers live streaming demos and photos of the aesthetic lasers housed in their facility. Through this collaboration, MedPro can ensure that its clients are getting a device that meets all of the manufacturer’s specifications and includes proper accessories and manuals. “We are thrilled to partner with MedPro and offer its customers the high-quality equipment and customer service they deserve,” said Chris Cella, CEO at Sentient Lasers. “We are looking forward to relocating our headquarters in a couple of months to a bigger, more functional, and workflow-efficient space in Park City, and providing companies like MedPro and its customers with even more transparency into our product and operations.”

Dermalogica Honors Professional Skin Care Therapists With PST Appreciation Brunches

On December 4, 2017 Dermalogica hosted three simultaneous brunches to honor and recognize the brand’s professionals. More than 200 members gathered at the Dermalogica Learning Loft in New York City, New York, brand headquarters in Los Angeles, California, and the International Dermal Institute in Chicago, Illinois where they were treated to gifting and pampering stations, an early product reveal, and the opportunity to reunite and connect with their peers as well as Dermalogica leaders. For those outside the hosting areas, Dermalogica held a contest offering three skin therapists the opportunity to be flown to the Los Angeles event. At the brand’s corporate headquarters, in Los Angeles, California, speakers included Jane Wurwund, founder and chief visionary, and Dr. Angela Murphy,

Powerful Peels

PEELS

Exfoliation is essential to an effective skin care routine. There are countless chemical exfoliators boasting substantial results, but what separates each peel is the functionality of the ingredients incorporated. Even as professionals, it is not a simple process to find the perfect exfoliator for each client. But, what may make the job less daunting is discovering the function of key ingredients that can be found in many products on the market. Here are a few ingredients to look out for.

Tools of the Trade: Cellulite

Sagestone Spa & Salon

Red Mountain Resort’s Sagestone Spa & Salon showcases a finely-tuned therapy menu that provides rejuvenation and restoration. Through the continued development of new experiences and treatments, Red Mountain, with Sagestone Spa, is frequently recognized as a go-to resort for adventure, fitness, and wellness in the Southwest.

New F.C. Sturtevant director to help launch new line

F.C. Sturtevant, America’s first skin care company, announced that spa industry veteran Melanie Edwards was named the director of professional and spa products division. Edwards will be leveraging her 25 years of industry experience to launch F.C. Sturtevant’s revolutionary skin care line, Columbia Probiotics, in the spa and medical markets. Columbia Probiotics has received national recognition as the first probiotic complex for topical use. The Professional Products Division includes the Columbia Probiotic Skin Care line, as well as proprietary moisturizers and creams.

Deka Lash opens studio in Las Vegas

Deka Lash, known as the “Experts in Eyelashes” specializing in eyelash extensions and eyelash-related products, announced the opening of a retail studio in Las Vegas, Nevada. PWS Enterprises owns and operates the studio location northwest of the strip in Centennial Hills. "We chose Deka Lash because we were looking for an exceptional, top quality leader in the eyelash industry, a name synonymous with quality and beauty. We recognize the world of beauty is forever evolving and dynamic and we want to be part of a brand that is setting the bar and creating the trend rather than following it,” said Cailyn Piazza of PWS.

Apotheca Beauty expands

A specialist and privately held distributor in the Middle East, Apotheca Beauty cherry-picks luxury brands from across the globe that excel on premium ingredients and beautiful packaging. With head offices in both Dubai and Kuwait, Apotheca Beauty opens doors into new markets, distributing across a large network of retailers throughout UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, and Jordan. The partnership between Apotheca Beauty and Lancer Skincare presents an exciting new frontier for Lancer Skincare, exposing the brand to the burgeoning Middle Eastern cosmetics market. Driven by consumers with a high disposable income, the rising number of both brick and mortar and digital sales channels have made the Middle East a highly compelling emerging market for luxury skin care.

BiON’s stateside distribution

BiON Skincare Products is excited to announce exclusive United States distribution and partnership with ItalWax products of Milan, Italy. Not only can BiON’s award-winning skin care products be purchased, but buyers can also order Italwax hard and soft waxes. Italwax offers professional cosmetics for waxing produced in compliance with the modern and classic Italian formula under strict supervision at its private laboratory in Milan, Italy.

Skin Script continues retreat

Skin Script released the dates for this year’s Empowerment Retreat: May 5-7, 2018! Build confidence, connect, and network with training classes taught by leading industry professionals, participate in early morning yoga and meditation, and listen to motivational speakers, all in the gorgeous desert southwest. Most importantly, leave this retreat with the tools needed to grow while also feeling empowered, inspired, refreshed, focused, and prepared to take business to the next level.

IREDALE sponsors film festival

Last year, Iredale Mineral Cosmetics, Ltd. served as the exclusive signature sponsor for The Berkshire International Film Festival, a globally acclaimed gathering held in the brand’s hometown of Great Barrington, Massachusetts. “The Berkshire International Film Festival, lovingly known as BIFF, has become one of the most important in the country,” Iredale said. “It always includes powerful documentaries as well as new-release feature films. The added bonus is that it supports our local communities by bringing in thousands of people who shop and use the restaurants.”

Acne All-Stars

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions among adults. Much of a skin care professional’s daily function is performing the right treatments and suggesting the right products for a homecare regimen meant to produce clearer skin.

From cleansers to serums, there are a myriad of products on the market targeting adult acne. Here are a few products with potent, acne-fighting ingredients.

Tools of the Trade: Chemical Exfoliants

Tribeca Beauty Spa

Tribeca Beauty Spa, downtown New York City’s destination for beauty and pampering, is located in the heart of the Triangle Below Canal (TriBeCa) neighborhood. The spa has been a favorite in the area among celebrity clientele, locals, and tourists for the last decade.

The Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for the Skin

The benefits of ingesting apple cider vinegar have been sweeping the internet, becoming one of the latest social media health trends. From putting it in tea to taking “shots” of the vinegar, consumers seem obsessed with this liquid.

Private Label

Many spa owners opt to work with private labels as they are able to customize and brand a product that is already formulated. Often, it is also a cost-effective way to produce a line of products. Here are a few ingredients essential to the efficacy of the private label lines listed below.

Barbara Salomone, Bioelements Professional Skin Care Founder

To those who knew her, to those who learned from her, and those who worked with her, Barbara Salomone embodied a complete and total passion for aesthetics.

An introduction to... ACNE

Acne is one of the most common skin diseases to occur in adults. Clinical studies have shown that between 40 and 55 percent of adults between the ages of 20 and 40 have been diagnosed with low level, recurring acne and oily skin.

Reduce Acne Suffering: The Use of Good Clinical Photographs to Improve Treatment Compliance

Known mainly as a serious problem among teenagers, acne is considered the most common skin affliction affecting pre-teens and young adults. However, acne often affects adults through their 30s, 40s, and even 50s, and the incidence of inflammatory acne is growing across all of these groups, although experts are not quite sure why.

Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is a green photosynthetic plant pigment which helps transfer light into energy. It is found in most green vegetables – such as spinach, kale, collard, broccoli, wheatgrass, spirulina, and algae – and green herbs – such as cilantro, parsley, and mint.

December 26th is National Thank You Note Day!

Skin care professionals can show appreciation for their clients by sending them a “thank you” note on this natio­nal awareness date. Show gratitude to clients by thanking them for their business!

Dos and Don’ts: Difficult Clients

Do:

Genuinely listen to their concerns. Most difficult clients have a frustration that they merely want heard and are satisfied once someone listens to them vent. For clients that complain regardless of proposed solutions, the professional should continue to do what they can to mollify the client.

Bangz Wellness Spa

New Jersey’s award-winning salon and spa, Bangz Salon and Wellness spa, is in Montclair, New Jersey and has an expansive array of spa services that include massages, facials, waxing, manicures, pedicures, makeup, skin care, and more. Bangz Salon and Wellness Spa is highly regarded for its award-winning professionals and state-of-the-art spa services. The spa provides its customers with a highly-regarded rewards program, as well. Programs include the Client Loyalty Program, Bangz Buddies, and Employee of the Month discounts.

HydroPeptide is proud to continue its partnership with charity: water

IN THE NEWS

HydroPeptide is proud to continue its partnership with charity: water, a nonprofit organization delivering clean, safe drinking water to people in developing countries, through the sale of Hydrating Heroes, an exclusive gift set that was launched in September. Hydrating Heroes is a skin care duo with a vegan, peptide-rich brightening eye cream and a two-in-one mattifying moisturizer/makeup printer. Every healthy, hydrating purchase contributes $3 to fund clean water projects worldwide. “‘Clean’ has always played an important role in beauty, and to continue our efforts in making the world both beautiful and clean, we are launching the Hydrating Heroes set in tandem with our partnership with charity: water,” says Annette Rubin, CEO of HydroPeptide. “With tangible funds from every purchase going directly to building wells, we are making an impact on the world, together.” Diseases from unsafe water and lack of basic sanitation kill more people every year than all forms of violence, including war. It’s clean skin care that creates clean water – an easy, actionable way to give back.

Advance Esthetic

Advance Esthetic is a developed, international company with over 10 years of experience under the same ownership as several of our other renowned beauty companies in Europe.

Organic Skin Care

The world of aesthetics, though steadfast in its efforts to sooth and beautify, is forever changing due to clients’ needs – one of the latest trends being a push for organic skin care products. In an effort to take a more holistic approach, skin care professionals are turning to products combining botanicals, minerals, and essential oils to curate an impactful regimen for clients.

An introduction to... BODY TREATMENTS

In 2016, Americans spent more than 15 billion dollars on combined surgical and nonsurgical procedures for the first time ever. Nonsurgical procedures were up seven percent in 2016.

Tools of the Trade: Body Treatments

Spa Django

Named after the famed gypsy-jazz guitarist, Django Reinhardt, Spa Django provides a peaceful and pampering experience at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa. With its unique location right outside Austin, Spa Django reflects a luxury wilderness retreat, featuring 18 treatment rooms. The success of Spa Django is directly correlated to its talented providers and staff, who are passionate about gaining knowledge, honing their talents, and learning new techniques within the industry.

Siliconized Pullulan Film-former Developed for Long-wear Lip Formulations

Shin-Etsu Silicones of America, Inc. has recently premiered its advanced, multi-functional TSPL-30-ID siliconized pullulan film former in isododecane.

Will drinking water flush toxins from the body and improve oily and acne prone skin?

Water is a powerful ally to Earth, communities, human bodies, and the mind. Its ability to fully hydrate skin, plump skin significantly from the inside, and change the behavior of genetic skin types, however, is a shadowy topic: scientific evidence does not support the claims. Water’s journey from fancy bottles to physiological application is slightly more complicated than “flushes toxins from the skin.”

VI Aesthetics, a Los Angeles-based pharmaceutical grade chemical peel and skin care line

VI Aesthetics, a Los Angeles-based pharmaceutical grade chemical peel and skin care line, is proud to announce Ken Mazur as vice president of sales. Mazur will be responsible for expanding and leading the domestic sales team in driving sales for the famed painless VI Peel and the VI Derm skin care line. Hailing from Clarisonic, Mazur describes the appeal of VI Aesthetics saying, “VI Aesthetics has a very unique product and the company has a mission I believe in. Marya Khalil-Otto has taken this company to new heights and I am honored to become part of the growing team.”

Saltability announces that Christine Clinton has joined the company as an account executive and international educator.

Saltability announces that Christine Clinton has joined the company as an account executive and international educator. A licensed massage therapist, entrepreneur, and skin care specialist, Clinton has worked in the spa industry for 27 years, with a focus on helping cancer patients through spa therapy. A wellness company that provides quality Himalayan salt stone treatments and products for resort, day, medical, and destination spas worldwide, Saltability was created by founder Ann Brown, who sought a better and more environmentally-friendly way to provide stone massage to clients. In her new role, Clinton will work closely with Saltability clients to determine how best to incorporate Saltability’s Himalayan Salt Stone Massage, featuring Saltability’s eco-friendly, salt stone warmer, and other spa treatments and retail products into their spas and wellness centers.

Surya Brasil, a Brazilian line of natural, organic, and vegan lifestyle products that promote health

Surya Brasil, a Brazilian line of natural, organic, and vegan lifestyle products that promote health, wellness, and sustainability, celebrates 20 years in the United States with continued growth and development on the horizon. In the 20 years in the US and Canada, the brand has seen continued growth. “In 2017 alone we have grown 92 percent and will continue to grow as we look to the future," says Clelia Angelon, founder of Surya Brasil. "We are proud to now be available in our latest retailers, Thrive Market and Pharmaca, and intend to continue to significantly increase our distribution over the next couple of years. We are also exploring the opportunity of going into mass market in 2018.”

Repêchage® Professional Skin Care is excited to announce that Mrs. India 2017 & Mrs. North Asia Universe 2017

Repêchage® Professional Skin Care is excited to announce that Mrs. India 2017 & Mrs. North Asia Universe 2017, Kristi Das, will serve as an official Repêchage Brand Ambassador in India. Under the guidance of JB SkinCare, the exclusive distributor for Repêchage in India, Repêchage will serve as Das’ skin care and wellness partner as she prepares to compete for the title of Mrs. Universe 2017. In partnering with Repêchage, Kristi Das says, “I am very excited that Repêchage will serve as the official skin care and wellness partner in my journey to Mrs. Universe 2017. Repêchage makes my skin beautiful and radiant. The seaweed contains vitamins, minerals, and trace elements, which provide my skin with essential moisture.”

Iris Mittenaere has become an ambassador for Guinot Paris

Iris Mittenaere has become an ambassador for Guinot Paris, the leading French skin care line and beauty company, which offers full service treatments and professional expertise for the beauty in dustry. Mittenaere has long valued healthy skin care and with a busy schedule as Miss Universe, Guinot makes it easy for her to maintain a well-balanced beauty regimen. During a recent Guinot Hydradermie facial at Stephen Knoll Salon in New York, she said, “I travel a lot and value good skin care products. As a Guinot ambassador, I have been able to learn more about my skin type and which Guinot products and treatments are best for me. I look forward to sharing the Guinot experience with others.” Keeping its roots in the spas where its professional treatments began, Guinot is recognized as a leading skin care collection with results-driven products and treatments available exclusively at prestigious spas worldwide.

Biologique Recherche has partnered with Wellness for Cancer, a non-profit organization

Biologique Recherche has partnered with Wellness for Cancer, a non-profit organization, to adapt facial and body treatments specifically to the needs of cancer patients and those in remission. Treatments are available in the US and France, with plans to expand in over 70 countries, making Biologique Recherche the only company adapting its methodology to all types of cancer patients worldwide. "With the help of Wellness for Cancer, we are bringing to market something that should have been done a long time ago, bringing wellness and beauty to those who need it most and those who cannot always afford it,” says Rupert Schmid, chairman of Biologique Recherche. “Through this partnership, we are adapting our methodology and personalized approach to globally offer spa benefits to those who have been touched by cancer.”

Bioelements announces expanded distribution of its professional skin care products through Massage Warehouse

Bioelements announces expanded distribution of its professional skin care products through Massage Warehouse, a web-based professional supply source with international distribution. Massage Warehouse is excited to announce its partnership with Bioelements! The goal is to provide a wide selection of quality massage and spa products at an affordable price. “Whether you are an independent LMT or part of luxurious salon, we are confident that your clients will enjoy using Bioelements skin care products,” said David Lahr, marketing manager for Massage Warehouse. “We are thrilled about this new partnership, “ said Lou Ann Kuzniewski, Bioelements director of business development. “I'm confident that together we will continue to ensure Bioelements’ high expectations for service and results will be met.”

Performance Health Marcia Chaves Tyndall, L.M.T.

Performance Health Marcia Chaves Tyndall, L.M.T. was presented with the Performance Health FSMTA Humanitarian Award at Florida State Massage Therapy Association’s (FSMTA) Convention and Trade Show. Performance Health, the manufacturer and marketer of Bon Vital®, Biofreeze®, Prossage®, TheraBand™, Cramer® and Thera°Pearl®health and wellness products, honor individuals annually in the massage therapy industry for their efforts in improving the welfare of their clients and demonstrating selfless devotion to others. This is the 15th year Performance Health and the FSMTA have presented the award. “We are once again honored and proud for the opportunity to partner with the FSMTA to honor someone who passionately gives back so much to others,” stated Craig Hall, director of sales and marketing, with Performance Health.

Bio-Therapeutic is pleased to announce the details of the 2017-2018 Bio-Therapeutic Face of the Future Awards

Bio-Therapeutic is pleased to announce the details of the 2017-2018 Bio-Therapeutic Face of the Future Awards. Bio-Therapeutic wants professionals to show off their skills with their best before and after photos using Bio-Therapeutic equipment and products. These awards are about championing hard working skin care professionals who dedicate their time to making a difference in clients’ lives. Amazing prizes, worldwide recognition, and the opportunity to perfect facial techniques, making a difference in a client's lives and comfortable by helping them achieve their best possible skin health is the optimal goal.

Ryan Rabah president and co-founder of Rezenerate

Ryan Rabah entered the aesthetic world with the introduction of the award-winning ‘Rezenerate’ modality and its revolutionary ‘Rezenerate NanoFacial.’ In addition to founding Rezenerate, Rabah is an attorney with a focus on Esthetics Licensing issues and is a vocal proponent of Esthetician Rights. To that end, he was recently invited to the Advisory Board of The Esthetician Connection, the premier networking platform for aestheticians, and he frequently collaborates with organizations nationwide that work to uphold the integrity of the industry by supporting aestheticians.

Toners

When aiming for clear skin, toners are the last line of defense against impurities on the skin and in pores. Included in most skin care regimens, toners complete the cleansing process, ridding the skin of any leftover dirt and particles while tightening the pores. The myriad of options for toners is indicative of the world of skin care – it’s diverse. There is a product out there for every skin type featuring a variety of ingredients meant to fight off free radicals, bacteria, excess sebum, and dirt from deep inside the pores. Below are a few ingredients of note.

Exhibitor SPOTLIGHT

The Miami International Congress
of Esthetics and Spa tradeshow is here!
Stop by these booths to see the latest products from industry leaders.

An introduction to... Menopausal Skin

The average age that a woman begins menopause is 51. However, it can occur as early as a woman’s 30s or as late as her 60s.

The only loose benchmark to determine when menopause will start for a woman is by noting the age her mother’s menstrual cycle ended.

Tools of the Trade: Menopausal Skin

October is National Apple Month!

An apple a day just might keep the aesthetician away! This vitamin-packed fruit is an efficient source of copper, a mineral that has been shown to have protective advantages for the skin. It also contains vitamins A and C, which are important to the development of the skin and the production of collagen.

Dermatologists and Plastic Surgeons Use New Technique to Treat Patients with Skin Lesions

Seborrheic keratosis is one of the most common noncancerous skin growths in older adults. In a new study, dermatologists and plastic surgeons are treating patients with a patient-friendly method that, clinical studies have shown, potentially offers better aesthetic outcomes for the more than 80 million people in the United States with seborrheic keratosis.

Robert Trow

CEO of ROCASUBA – RapidLash

Rob Trow began his career in higher education, serving for over two decade s as a professor and administrator at several universities and as a consultant to the corporate world. He holds two masters degrees and did his doctorial studies at Harvard University.

Men’s Skin

In 2016, men’s skin care and hair products brought in more than $19 billion globally. As men become more conscious and knowledgeable about their skin, skin care manufacturers and professionals are offering more products and treatments that are tailored to men. The following are a few game changing ingredients that are beneficial for men’s skin:

An introduction to... Beauty

Globally, women spend an average of about $144 yearly on beauty products; women in the west, on average, spend the most on beauty products, spending $154 yearly.

Almost half of American women feel that wearing makeup gives them control.

The largest part of the cosmetic industry, 36.4 percent, is represented by skin care products.

As of 2016, the revenue of the cosmetic industry was $62.46 billion.

A 2013 study revealed that British women keep makeup six years after its expiration date; on average, they keep eyeshadow for about seven years.

In 2016, the men’s grooming market was $19.36 billion. By 2020, it is expected to grow to $23.98 billion.

Spa Castle

Spa Castle is the premier Korean-inspired luxury spa, with one location in Carrollton, Texas and one location in College Point, New York. Spa Castle features a hybrid of traditional Asian and luxurious European spa treatments. From their Korean body scrubs to their Sauna Valley, each treatment focuses on health, youthfulness, and well-being.