The eyes, the proclaimed windows to the soul, give insight into people’s deepest emotions. Yet, on the outside, they tell a very different story. Comprised of the most delicate skin on the face, the eye area’s susceptibility to environmental stressors reveals the first signs of aging and reflects how much attention is given in this fragile area.

Vulnerable to the same aggressors as the rest of skin, the eye area experiences fine lines and wrinkles, dark circles, dryness, uneven texture, puffiness, and loss of firmness to a greater degree. Repeated exposure to ultraviolet rays damages collagen and elastin, thinning skin further and resulting in fine lines and dark, hollowed areas beneath the eyes. Skin degradation is further progressed through hereditary factors and daily lifestyle habits, such as smoking, lack of sleep, smiling, frowning, and repetitive squinting.

Chronic stress is increasingly becoming ingrained in day-to-day life. Many forms of stress are tolerated in many societies, but the health consequences of stress are not. Stress has the appearance of an unwelcome guest who is always present. Despite many research articles linking stress to a variety of diseases, it is frequently ignored as a culprit when skin problems arise. Skin issues directly related to the gut and skin are gaining attention. 

PHYSIOLOGY OF STRESS 

More than 100 billion neurons make up the brain. These neurons communicate by sending chemicals, neurotransmitters, and hormones. During communication, an estimated 11 million messages can be processed within a single second.1 Interestingly, the brain can also anticipate or predict certain outcomes of missing pieces.2 A primary nerve involved in stress messages is the vagus nerve.  

References 

1. Mahmud, R., Akter, S., Tamanna, S. K., Mazumder, L., Esti, I. Z., Banerjee, S., Akter, S., Hasan, R., Acharjee, M., Hossain, S., & Pirttilä, A. M. (2022). Impact of gut microbiome on skin health: Gut-skin axis observed through the lenses of Therapeutics and skin diseases. Gut Microbes, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/19490976.2022.2096995  

1. Khmaladze, I., Leonardi, M., Fabre, S., Messaraa, C., & Mavon, A. (2020). The skin interactome: A holistic “genome-microbiome-exposome” approach to understand and modulate skin health and aging. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, Volume 13, 1021–1040. https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s239367  

1. Dong, K., Goyarts, E. C., Pelle, E., Trivero, J., & Pernodet, N. (2019). Blue light disrupts the circadian rhythm and create damage in skin cells. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 41(6), 558–562. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12572  

1. Saif, G. A., Alotaibi, H. M., Alzolibani, A. A., Almodihesh, N. A., Albraidi, H. F., Alotaibi, N. M., & Yosipovitch, G. (2018). Association of psychological stress with skin symptoms among medical students. Saudi Medical Journal, 39(1), 59–66. https://doi.org/10.15537/smj.2018.1.21231  

Warning! Waxing may cause hyperpigmentation. Most have all heard the tale of the friend, client, or relative that suffered from hyperpigmentation after getting waxied and swore they would never get waxed again. When it comes to hair removal, hyperpigmentation is one of the more traumatic side effects. It is characterized by an increase in melanin, or the substance that gives skin its color. To find the answers to minimizing it, waxers need to ask the right questions.

Offering retail is a common topic in the beauty industry for good reason. Whether the idea of presentingproducts incites excitement or fear, the way it is done is of the utmost importance. Sharing options in an informative way is a great service for all involved and arguably one of the most important components to success. 

REAPING THE BENEFITS

The potential business benefits of retail are substantial not just for obvious reasons. While providing products to clients may certainly lead to increased income potential, it also greatly contributes to the overall client experience and retention. When products are purchased, a little reminder of the spa experience is brought home. For skin care professionals, this is also a crucial component for results. When seeking exceptional service experiences, clients also look for expertise. Sharing personalized recommendations is truly the best way to fulfill professional responsibility.

There is nothing more annoying than running low on a product and not even realizing it. It happens to the best of us, but with proper planning and systems in place, you can limit how often you catch yourself off guard.  

Taylor Wilson is a licensed aesthetician hailing from the Washington Metropolitan area. She’s a graduate of Von Lee International School of Esthetics, founded by the legendary Carole Walderman. She was wax trainer at a European Wax center and eventually transitioned into her own studio, JB Skin Clinic full time where she provided waxing and skin revision treatments. Realizing she wanted to focus on education and helping other aestheticians reach their goals, she came on board to Starpil as their brand educator. 

Offering multiple modalities in a single service can yield amazing results for clients. Often, clients are willing to pay more for upgraded services that will get them results faster. Safely knowing how to provide this is important, and many new and even seasoned skin care professionals may still have their reservations when it comes to combining equipment. However, it is possible to build your confidence and allow your treatments to reach the next level. Look for classes with reputable companies or educators and companies or schools that you can continue to reach out to with additional questions even after the course is over. 

Andrea Gregaydis is a licensed aesthetician and international CIDESCO diplomat. She holds multiple additional licenses as a New York state instructor and nail technician, as well as certified laser technician. Gregaydis is the lead instructor at the Aesthetic Science Institute and has over 10 years of experience as a practitioner, team coordinator, and role model for hundreds of future skin care professionals. She is a contributing author to top industry trade magazines, as well as a speaker at various aesthetics conferences across the United States. She is also a CIDESCO International Examiner.

An industry veteran, Franco is the lead aesthetician at The Spa at PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. 

What is your educational background, and how do you continue your education in the industry?

When I was 14 years old, I told my parents I wanted to be a cosmetologist and hair stylist because I wanted to have an artistic and creative career. After a few years as a hair stylist, I decided to train in makeup and aesthetics and attended Christine Valmy’s school in New York, New York. Before long, skin care became my passion and is now my primary focus. I continue my education with courses, classes, and webinars. I also participate in classes and education at tradeshows, such as at the Repêchage classes at IECSC in Palm Beach, Florida. In addition, Repêchage CEO and founder, Lydia Sarfati has done extensive on-site training at the Spa at PGA, as well as co-partner Shiri Sarfati. 

How long have you been practicing, and why did you choose this field? 

I have been in the industry since 1976. Skin care truly is my passion, and I am so happy to be able to work in an industry that I love.

Why is Repêchage your ultimate go-to, and how has it helped you become one of the best professionals in the industry? 

Repêchage is my primary brand because I see instant results. The education and support from the company is unparalleled, and I have had the great pleasure of training with Lydia Sarfati. For our clients who are active and frequently outdoors (for example, tennis champion, Venus Williams), Repêchage developed our signature treatment called “Facial of Champions.” This includes the iconic Repêchage Four-Layer Facial, Biolight Luminex Mask glycolic peel, and LED therapy to brighten skin, while an antiaging hand treatment and Sea Spa Glow foot and leg scrub restore hard-working hands and feet.  

How do you stay educated with this brand? 

I frequently attend seminars and webinars where Repêchage is featured. The brand also offers extensive training courses accessible through the lydiasarfati.com educational website. This does not even begin to mention the in-spa training I have received from the Repêchage team.

What benefits do your clients see from using the retail of this brand? 

They see hydration, firming of fine lines and wrinkles, and glowing skin! 

How do you promote yourself and the brand?

I first create trust with my clients. I feel confident in my abilities as a professional skin care expert, and I know the brand will deliver great results. It is because of this that I am one of the brands’ top retailers at the Spa at PGA National.

Besides working with the brand, what else has helped you become one of the best? 

Through the years of working in the field, I have kept education as my primary focus. I also personally try and use products before I use them on my clients. I feel it is my obligation to verify the products’ quality. I also feel it is important to look the part. I wake up every morning and prepare myself for the workday with a light, healthy breakfast and do not leave the house without my makeup and hair done. I have to feel that I look good if I am going to tell others how to improve their own appearance.

How do you give back to the industry or community?

I try my best to inspire my teammates on best practices and retailing. I am especially proud when the advice I give to new skin care professionals helps them grow in their career.

Belle’s Must-Have Products 

Vita Cura B3 Serum Complex 

Vita Cura Triple Firming Cream

Opti-Firm Eye Contour Cream 

Vita Cura Opti-Lift® Serum 

@labelleofpalmbeach

pgaresort.com/spa

(800) 863-2819

Probiotics are extremely popular for their theoretical benefit, but I have learned that the science does not necessarily support their use. I also have been witnessing more and more skin conditions that result from taking probiotics including candida acne and H. pylori (redness under nose). How could this be if probiotics are the “good” bacteria?

The use of devices in aesthetics can breathe new life into a treatment room and is gaining popularity among clients. The marketing trends of aesthetic modalities have clients seeking treatments with various skin rejuvenation devices. With all the devices available for skin care professionals to use, it may be hard to decipher which are best for a practice – microcurrent, sonophoresis, and LED are just a few of the sought-out devices used in skin care treatments to enhance results. The use of devices should not be taken lightly. First and foremost, professionals must protect their license by knowing their state regulations and the FDA classification of each device. State regulations are not always clear, making it hard to understand the necessary rules. 

LED

LED, commonly referred to as light therapy, produces low levels of light energy. During the 1990s, NASA-sponsored research determined that an LED system could provide the necessary wavelengths and intensities to produce photosynthesis and grow plants in space. NASA subsequently discovered that LED could address astronaut health by maintaining strong cellular growth, preventing bone and muscle loss, and boosting the body’s ability to heal wounds. 

A light-emitting diode is a type of semiconductor that converts electrical energy into light energy that is released in the form of photons (bundles of light energy). The body’s cells can absorb photons and convert them to the form of energy that cells use to carry out normal functions. This form of energy is called adenosine triphosphate, or ATP. As aging occurs, the body produces less ATP, which inhibits cells from performing at peak function. 

In the treatment room, providers use LED at various wavelengths of the light spectrum to target specific skin concerns. Blue light is mainly used for acne, due to its antibacterial properties. Red light is used for skin rejuvenation to improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Infrared is often used to fight signs of inflammation. Blue, red, and infrared are the most researched types, but there are other beneficial colors as well. The treatment is simple if all the guidelines are followed, including the use of eye protection. LED is applied on clean skin or with an approved clear serum or mask. It is widely used in skin care by skin care professionals due to its demonstrated effective results with the appearance of many skin conditions. 

References:

1. Whelan, H. T., Smits, R. L., Buchman, E. V., Whelan, N. T., Turner, S. G., Margolis, D. A., Cevenini, V., Stinson, H., Ignatius, R., Martin, T., Cwiklinski, J., Philippi, A. F., Graf, W. R., Hodgson, B., Gould, L., Kane, M., Chen, G., & Caviness, J. (2001). Effect of NASA light-emitting diode irradiation on wound healing. Journal of Clinical Laser Medicine & Surgery, 19(6), 305–314. https://doi.org/10.1089/104454701753342758 

1. Barolet, D. (2008). Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in dermatology. Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 27(4), 227–238. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sder.2008.08.003

1. Braukus, M., & Berg, J. (2003, November 13). NASA light-emitting diode technology brings relief in clinical trials. NASA. Retrieved February 24, 2023, from https://www.nasa.gov/home/hqnews/2003/nov/HQ_03366_clinical_trials.html

1. NASA. (2008). LED device illuminates new path to healing. NASA. Retrieved February 24, 2023, from https://spinoff.nasa.gov/Spinoff2008/hm_3.html

1. Goldberg, D. J., & Russell, B. A. (2006). Combination Blue (415 nm) and red (633 nm) led phototherapy in the treatment of mild to severe acne vulgaris. Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 8(2), 71–75. https://doi.org/10.1080/14764170600735912

1. Ghafarian, H. (2017, February 15). Consider of micro-current's effect to variation of facial wrinkle trend, Randomized Clinical Trial Study. Academia.edu. Retrieved February 24, 2023, from https://www.academia.edu/31457903/Consider_of_Micro_Currents_effect_to_variation_of_Facial_Wrinkle_trend_Randomized_Clinical_Trial_Study

1. Park, D., Park, H., Seo, J., & Lee, S. (2014). Sonophoresis in Transdermal Drug Deliveries. Ultrasonics, 54(1), 56–65. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultras.2013.07.007

1. Johns, L. D. (2002, July). Nonthermal effects of therapeutic ultrasound: The frequency resonance hypothesis. Journal of athletic training. Retrieved February 24, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC164359/

Being a beauty business owner means a continuous cycle of attracting new clients. However, there could be some mistakes preventing them from bursting at the seams with new clients. Let’s explore six mistakes spa business owners make when attracting new clients.

THE SERIOUS SIX

1. No one knows the brand. Brand awareness is when potential and current clients start to become familiar with the qualities or image of a brand and their services and products. Establishing one’s brand in their market is key to attracting new clients. One way to build brand awareness is to increase a business’s social media presence. This can be done by making sure the business’s logo, photographs, and contact information are uploaded and consistent across all profiles. Also, make sure to post often on all social media channels. Another way to increase brand awareness is to increase one’s local presence in the current market by handing out flyers, business cards, and sending out marketing material to the nearby community.