Mask acne has become one of the most asked about concerns.  People are wearing masks more and more to protect themselves and others.  This is our suggestion for mask acne and how we can help: 

1.  Breathe!  I mean really take some deep breaths (without your mask) as often as possible.  All of us tend to shallow breathe in most situations anyway, add the mask wearing and we are getting worse.  Deep breaths help with stress, they increase the level of oxygen in your body and its FREE!  Slow down and take a deep breath.  

2.  Bring better circulation.  When you are wearing a mask and re-breathing your own air your skin isn't getting it's best circulation and that dark damp poorly oxygenated skin in ripe for bacteria.    You can increase circulation by using a ultrasonic cleansing brush like Luce Beauty Facial Cleansing Tool.  This silicone tool allows great exfoliation and increases circulation without stripping the skin barrier or causing inflammation.  

3.  Treatments that include extractions will help clear congestion.  Please, please please don't get in that magnifying mirror with some tool from Amazon and start scarring your face!  Come in for a visit and we can focus on extractions if that's what you need.  A cleansing tool like the Luce Beauty Facial Cleansing Tool can also help with  clogged pores.  

4.  More aggressive acne can be treated very effectively with micro-current and LED light.  We can match a combination that works well for your skin and your specific needs.  

Don't let mask wearing get you down.  It's been a pretty tough year.  This can be treated effectively.  If you need more advice come in for a consultation or schedule an appointment.  We are holding a safe space in the studio for you.  See our safety statement to understand how we are keeping people safe during visits.  

The action of adopting a safety plan is smart, shows you respect those you serve and take things seriously.  There are strong feelings around wearing masks and closures of businesses and states (sometimes several times) in an effort to keep other safe.  Me personally I want to make others around me comfortable when I am in public.  I have no idea what the person next to me is facing from a health standpoint.  Let's say we discover years from now that this mask wearing didn't play a part in how this COVID disaster turns out.   It doesn't "hurt" me to wear a mask and if it provides comfort to someone I'll be glad I did it.   

I am truly blessed to develop amazing relationships in my work with my personal clients and other professionals.  When I'm working with my personal clients behind the table I am more observant than before COVID.  Before our closeness to each other felt normal.  I didn't get the feeling from people that I was ever "too close" to them.   Those were the days of breath mints and lip gloss! 

Now things are different.  I still have those great relationships and cherish them.  I've noticed that some people are more comfortable than others in close proximity.  I try to be observant of the energy between myself and the client.  It's more about them than ever.  The last thing I want is to provide a treatment to a client that is fearful or unsure.  That's not what we do.  I've noticed body language more.  For example, I commonly use a LED panel in my treatments.  I've found myself placing the LED under the Facial Guardian.  It fits nicely.  I do it because the moment that I remove that panel and those eyes open the client gets a "feeling".  Consider the fact that they have been there "light napping" and then open their eyes.  If they don't see that barrier it's like they felt exposed in some way left uncovered or naked.   It's easy for me to leave it there, it makes them happier and that makes me happy. 

When the term "new normal" was coined earlier this spring I hated it.  I still don't say "new normal" but I've come to understand it more.  We should consider that clients may come to expect more or maybe different things.  I've had many estheticians tell me "we have always been at a level of sanitation more than what clients are aware of, why should I change?"  

When I worked in a hospital system there was always a project going on, some kind of renovation.  Painting, polishing, something in rotation of every area.  I remember asking one of the hospital administrators about this.   She explained to me that when patients are surveyed on quality of care they equate cleanliness with quality and scuffed baseboards don't scream cleanliness.   She explained that it is the patients perception along with the clinical outcome that keeps patients coming back and using the facility.  I've always remembered that.  It applies in this instance more than ever.   

Perception is more than opinion just as safety and sanitation is more than an action.  Consider what your clients see, what you do, what you say and how they feel.  The connection could be stronger than you think.  

I'd love your feedback on this topic.  What is working for you, what isn't?  How do you feel?  

Yes, we are doing facials.  We do 5 a day in each treatment room.  We believe we provide a sanitation practice that safely allows you to have a facial.  We have a full safety protocol that goes far beyond what is required and use appropriate PPE.  We also use the Facial Guardian System.  I have a bias as we invented it. 

It all started back in March 2020 when the governor ordered close contact providers to close in SC.  COVID-19 seemed a lot like an invisible boogie man to me.  I was angry and felt this invisible monster was threatening my "baby".  To those that own a small business you can relate.  You grow it, you tend it, you keep it safe.  It's your business and your baby.  Nothing is more personal than a small business. 

I kept hearing all the social distancing and 6 feet apart.  I knew that there was no way I could keep 6 feet away from people and do my work.  It isn't possible.  To make things worse, I sit about 9 inches or less from your face during a service.  That's close!  Oh, and I also touch peoples faces.  That is another big no no for COVID. 

Just as I was starting to get past the anger of the whole thing I started hearing more and more colleagues say they weren't coming back.  They were going to close or wait for a vaccine to reopen.  Many said they would come back but only do waxing  and not facials.  I started to really wonder if the fate of my chosen profession was doomed.   What is the industry like without facials?   Could an industry staple like facials just shrivel up?  

Hank and I started to do what we always do.  Brainstorm about solutions and not dwell on problems.  How do you touch people while sitting close to them and stay away at the same time?   How can you use the tools of the trade and provide services with devices and hand pieces? 

The Facial Guardian barrier device was born.  We went to work making this from cardboard boxes, testing it on my treatment table.  We would try to "break" the idea and make refinements.  Once we had a prototype we had to choose a material.  It had to be easy to see through, strong, and easy to clean.  We chose polycarbonate.  We are both from Charleston.  We both wanted to benefit as many local businesses as possible.  We started working with PolyShapers and others to manufacture and produce our product.   We chose steam sanitation of the Facial Guardian is steam as it was studied to kill bacteria after 15 minutes exposure and preserve the integrity and clarity of the plastic.  Using a micro-fiber towel prevents scratches and removes water quickly from the sanitized barrier.  We included a marketing file of photos and videos to inspire confidence in therapists and clients.  

Facial Guardian Systems are in medical offices, schools, larger spas and  smaller spas.  We partnered with several vendors and the ASCP to provide education and best practices for businesses.  We believe that having a barrier between client and therapist will be a long term benefit.  We suggest using the barrier  during extractions and for those with compromised health conditions such as those receiving cancer treatments, those with auto-immune disease or any other condition where a physical barrier will benefit client or therapist.  There is room for tools including micro-current probes, microdermabrasion tools, needling devices, infusion wands and massage and touch techniques.   

​I love the feedback I get from clients and therapists. They have added confidence, feel safer and are thriving.  The long term survival of an industry that I love is the best thing ever!

It is a truly strange thing for me to develop a treatment that nobody is "touched".  We as therapists touch people all day.  It is our super power to help others and touch plays a large part in that process.  Times they are changing!  We want you to have all the benefits of skin rejuvenation without personal risk.  It is for that reason that I am developing this touch free, social distance, high skin reward therapy option.  

This is how it works:  Go to our scheduling page to arrange for your visit.  Here you will see the times available and pay for your visit.  When you arrive we ask that you come with a clean face (no makeup).  Please visit the freshly sanitized restroom and wash your hands before entering.  Come into the studio and you will be directed (from more than 6 feet away) to your treatment room.  You will find a single sheet on the table.  No robe needed for this visit!   The Celluma Pro will be on the table along with 2 small dishes with products.  Dish number one contains a serum.  Apply this to your clean face.  Choose your setting:  Acne or Wrinkles.  Choose to disable the pulse setting by pressing the button.  Put on your protective eyewear and place the Celluma Pro over your face.  Relax for a full LED treatment.  When the timer is out the unit will turn off.  Remove the eyewear  and return the unit and eye wear to the table.  Apply the SPF and you are on your way.  No need to check out as you have already paid for the service.  

LED is an amazing therapy for your skin.  Red light LED (wrinkles setting) penetrates into your skin to produce collagen and elastin.  Help with age spots, improve tone and texture of skin.  We recommend this treatment for results twice per week for 2 weeks.  You move to treatments weekly for 3 weeks, and then monthly for maintenance.  This is a proven wrinkle reducer and is FDA approved to treat wrinkles!

Acne is a big problem for a lot of folks.  It's painful and difficult to treat.  Acne products are often harsh and produce redness.  Blue light LED (acne setting) penetrates the skin to neutralize bacteria in the follicle.  There can't be acne without bacteria.  This is a great way to handle acne for all age clients.  We recommend treatments 3 times per week for 3 weeks, then weekly treatments for one month.  Then a maintenance treatment monthly.  This is a proven treatment for acne.  This device is FDA approved to treat acne.  

Please see our safety statement page for full details on our sanitation practices.  We take COVID-19 very seriously.   You will be asked to sign a waiver and provide a form confirming you are eligible for treatment.  We will not permit clients into the studio who are sick or who have traveled in the last 14 days.  

​Watch a video instruction on this service below: 

We have all heard you are what you eat.  There are lots of experts out there to tell us what to eat and when.  I am not one of those experts.  I can tell you what I know about food and skin.  

If you have dry skin or red skin you likely have a skin barrier malfunction.  This can come from over exfoliation, lack of moisture (internally) or using product that isn't best for you.  I find that most people are using too many things which complicates figuring out what is best to continue or stop.  

Food plays a part here as well.  A low fat diet may be great for your waist line but it can sometimes really be tough on your skin and moisture balance. 

Add in some: 
* fatty fish like salmon 
* avocados contain good fats that nourish skin
* walnuts
* sunflower seeds
*sweet potatoes
* dark chocolate

As I mentioned, I am not a doctor.  If you have dietary restrictions or health conditions please discuss nutritional changes with your doctor.  Eating a diet rich in good fats is proven to improve skin.  Be good to yourself, eat good foot, get facials, and wear some SPF.  You got this!

We all have one.  A drawer or container or bag of some sort with makeup and products that we "might need".  Have you considered how long is too long?  Here are our suggestions for shelf life of your products: 
* any open bottle of product has about a 1 year shelf life after opening or check the expiration date
* serums in amber bottles are placed in that type of packaging to avoid oxidation.  Sunlight, heat, opening and closing the bottle all contribute to oxidation which reduces the efficacy of products.  If  it is changing color it's time to pitch it!
* mascara is a 30 day item.  Yep, I know your mascara is likely a lot older.  More products are formulated now without parabens.  Well mascara should probably be an exception to that rule.  Parabens keep out bacteria.  No parabens= short shelf life.  Everytime you remove that wand and put it back in the container you are taking germs with it.  
* powder based makeup, especially mineral makeup is usually safe to use for up to 24 months
* liquid makeup should be discarded in one year or less

My biggest tip:  wash your hands before handling your products and makeup!  You can grow "critters" very easily by not using sanitary practices.  Avoid putting fingers in jars, use a Q-tip or other implement to remove products.  

Studies show that a massage will reduce stress and boost your immune system.  Read the study.  During times of stress you should continue to receive regular massage.  We believe that this simple act of self care can be a boost not only in your mood but in your immune system.  We recommend monthly massage for body balancing and overall health.  Clients with chronic pain or diagnosed orthopedic conditions may want to receive massage twice per month or weekly.   Do not schedule a massage when you are sick or are feeling unwell.  Do you have questions about massage?  Email us , view our services FAQ, or schedule your massage.  

The foundation of a partnership between client and esthetician needs to start with open communication in order to reach your skincare goals. This is why I ask so many questions. I like to know what your life is like, how busy you are, what's working for you now and what isn't.

The more I know about what your daily life looks like, I can make realistic recommendations when it comes to your daily routine.

The first visit with a client is my favorite because we get to sort through all of the products you bring with you (I request this in advance) - even your makeup! I record all of the information as we review product the labels and talk about ingredients. I advise on what should stay and what should go, according to your skincare goals. 

Your daily routine should be simple!  Here are the basic steps I recommend: 

Step 1:  Cleanse .  Use the prescribed amount of cleanser and massage into your skin. A tepid water temperature is best and if you're removing makeup, cleanse twice: once for makeup removal and once to make sure your skin is clean. Please do not scrub! Scrubbing can strip your skin and cause irritation.  

Step 2: Manage your main skincare concern.  For some this means a serum. Some of the creams that I recommend to clients are multi-purpose and contain ingredients that act in ways to "change or improve" skin in that one step. If you are serious about clearing up the top complaints (acne, aging, pigmentation from sun damage or sensitivity) you may have an additional management product in your suggested products.  Management products are used after you cleanse your skin and . before you apply moisturizer. Most of these products are applied morning and night, but  sometimes only one or the other. I write down all of the "special" instructions for you. 

Step 3: Moisturize.  Cleansing and managing can jeopardize the integrity of your skin.  Moisturizer allows your skin to maintain its ability to function normally and repair itself.  Skin is pretty amazing and given the proper environment will do most of the heavy lifting for us.  

Step 4: Protect. Always use sunscreen. This is a MUST HAVE in your daily routine. If you skip this step you are wasting all the money you spent on steps 1-3 .  I can recommend a suitable sunscreen product for you. 

So, you may be asking why I haven't suggested eye cream, lip treatment, spot treatment, or an at-home scrub? Once you're set up on a routine, then I recommend incorporating those pieces, but I believe that you can overwhelm yourself and your skin with too many items and too many steps.   

When you come in for a treatment, I listen to your concerns and together we create a treatment to reach your goals.

A partnership between esthetician and client is a truly beautiful thing! It's a relationship I cherish. 

See you soon!

- Liz

"WHAT TREATMENT DO I NEED?" is the most frequently asked question! 

​Clients are confused by all the available options. And most people are also somewhat afraid of committing to a treatment they don't completely understand. Let's take the mystery out of some of the services at the studio: 

Corrective Skincare Treatment: This is a facial but not a "spa" facial. This service will address your main skincare concern. The treatment always includes an exfoliation, which are methods that are typically chemical or mechanical. Chemical exfoliators for this service are either an alpha hydroxy acid or fruit enzymes, while a mechanical exfoliator for this service would be a facial scrub. This treatment is  great for just about anyone.

Microdermabrasion:  This treatment usually starts with a fruit enzyme or AHA to loosen skin on the surface. A microdermabrasion is then performed using suction against the skin with a diamond tip (chosen for your skin type) that pulls the surface skin from the outer most layer of the skin. Some microderm machines also use a titanium dioxide "crystal" that is pushed out of the wand and then the debris along with the surface skin from the outer most layer.  Both methods trap the debris and skin in a filter that is changed with each client. Tips are also sanitized and sterilized prior to each client.  Microdermabrasion is used to revive dull skin and dry skin, as well as address pigmentation from the sun, acne scarring and congested skin (large pores). Most clients notice an immediate improvement. Microdermabrasion can be performed monthly and most clients can benefit from this treatment.  

Micro-Peel: This treatment includes everything that a microdermabrasion treatment does with the added application of a medium-depth peel after the microderm. The peel agents are specially blended to meet your specific needs.  

Microdermabrasion with O2 Infusion:  This is the microdermabrasion treatment listed above with the added benefit of pushing a serum into the skin to infuse the skin with moisture and improved penetration of the product as it is applied under air pressure. This infusion technique can be used after many different types of treatments, not just microdermabrasion.  

Chemical Peels are agents applied to skin. These chemicals can sometimes be combinations of AHA and BHA (beta hydroxy acids). We also use TCA  and Modified Jessner peel agents in the process, depending on the client needs.  All chemical peels do not cause the skin to "peel,"  but the process is designed to create exfoliation of the skin without a mechanical exfoliation. We do use a variety of chemical peels and agents, which are valuable tools in treating fine lines and wrinkles, acne, and pigmentation. Chemical peels are often used in combination with microdermabrasion and LED therapy.  

LED Therapy is almost every client's favorite!  Most call it the "light nap" because it is so relaxing. LED is FDA approved to treat aging skin, acne and pain. We use a Celluma panel that emits red, blue and infrared light during each treatment. First, the skin is cleansed and exfoliated and sometimes a healing agent (growth factor) or other translucent product is placed on the skin. The client wears goggles to avoid bright light in their eyes (the light is not dangerous to your eyes but uncomfortable without goggles). The panel is bendable and is adjusted to fit as close to the face as possible. The further away the panel the less effective the treatment.  LED is used for 15-30 minutes depending on the service.  

I hope this takes away some of the questions you may have about different skincare treatments. I am always happy to discuss any questions you may have because I love to educate clients on what's available. More importantly, I closely listen to what you want to accomplish, which is the best possible way to chose a treatment! 

Call us at 843-990-9386 with any questions or connect with us on Facebook or Instagram where you can message us. 

Green peels are designed to detoxify the skin.  A blend of botanical and marine ingredients are the base for this peel.  Peel can be a scary word for some folks.  Think of the green peel as the "anti-peel".  You do get an exfoliation from the treatment but no actual peeling afterwards.  I like to mix in different things for different clients.  Ideally the mix in to the base provides the necessary ingredients to enhance the results and provide slip to massage the peel into the skin.  Green peels will leave your skin with a prickly feeling over the next several days.  I would not recommend exposure to lots of heat as this will enhance the prickly feeling.  This is a great treatment to have mid week for a fresher look on the weekend or for an event.  

LED is one of my favorite treatment modalities.  LED is FDA cleared to treatment aging skin (wrinkles) and acne.  It also enhances the healing of skin, provides immediate improvement and has cumulative results when used long term.    Clients love "the light nap" because it is relaxing and enhances the mood by exposing the client to "light".  

I suggest this combination of treatments for my VIP clients during the summer months.  It is a great way to customize a treatment with antioxidants and healing light.  Antioxidants enhance our sun protection with SPF so it is a perfect choice.  If you haven't tried this combo consider it for your next treatment.