Sometimes it can get difficult to know where to start when it comes to taking care of your skin. You can buy skincare online, at a beauty retailer such as Sephora or Ulta, from catalogs, from your neighbor, from the grocery store, from the corner store, from an esthetician… there are so many avenues, and SO. MANY. PRODUCTS.
It’s no wonder that people lose patience with skincare products when they are inundating you from almost every possible avenue. Our advice? Skip Sephora, can that catalogue, go past the grocery store, and see an esthetician. A catalog will never be able to identify what your skin needs, and a sales person is there to help you find and purchase products – it is highly likely that they did not study skin in-depth and are making recommendations based on information given to them by line-specific reps (who are also likely not skin care experts, but sales people). An esthetician has studied skin in great detail, understands the function of the skin, knows how to identify skin conditions and disorders, and most importantly, can help you choose the correct skin care regime to promote the healthiest, best skin you can achieve.
Estheticians also have access to professional grade products that will make a greater impact on your skin. The main difference between professional grade and over the counter products is the quality and quantity of active ingredients. Professional products will have a higher concentration of actives (ingredients which target a specific skin condition and improve it) from high-quality sources. Over the counter products generally have less active ingredients, and usually from a source that is lower quality and cost. Often times, professional products are more concentrated, so you will need less over time, and because of its efficacy, you will see results sooner. Because the active concentration is lower in over the counter products, you will need to use more and it will take longer to get the results you wish to see.
What some people would consider the biggest asset to having an esthetician is that we are there for you! We are tracking your skin’s progress, we understand the product interactions with each other as well as your skin, and we are your partner in the process. We are happy to educate you, treat you, and cheer you on as your skin progresses, constantly reviewing your routine to see what could be improved as your skin changes. It is hard to find that in a sales associate, as they aren’t able to dedicate themselves to you and provide as much consistent interaction.
When you partner with an esthetician, it’s like hiring a personal trainer for your skin. You’re not only given top notch facial treatments, you’re also given access to superior products at prices comparable to those you’d find in high-end cosmetics stores.
If you’d like to know more about your skin, and how an esthetician can assist you in improving it, book your complimentary consultation at Moonstone. You can book online, or by calling us at 415-898-0426. Come see the difference in Spa VS. Store for yourself!
Forgive us for being late but continuing education plays an important role at Moonstone. Rochell and I spent a few days in Long Beach at the International Congress Esthetics and Spa trade show. This year, we focused on learning the latest advancement in treating aging skin and skin of color. One of those advancements included LED light therapy. This technology uses different wavelengths to stimulate collagen and elastin, reduce inflammation and destroy acne bacteria in the skin which are concerns for many of our clients.
Now that Summer is over, its time to correct the skin from sun damage as well as bring your skin back to its healthiest state. With our advance treatments, we can address skin conditions including acne, wrinkles, pigmentation and inflammation. The best way we can accomplish healthy and youthful looking skin and get it ready for the holidays is through a series of advanced facial treatments, including microdermabrasion, facial peels, light therapy or a combination of treatments.
