Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Susan Nathan on December 26, 2012 at 9:38pm

Shia,  I perform a light exfoliating cleanse prior to any peel application using Nutrifoliant Nutrient Exfoliation Powder.  Nutrifoliant is a mixture of dermabrasion crystals and nutrients in powder form.  Combine with a cleanser to make a paste which is then massaged onto skin.  Great preparation for peels or any other treatment.  Let me know if you would like more information on this product.

Susan Nathan

BornAgainSkin@gmail.com

Permalink Reply by Lisa VanBockern on December 27, 2012 at 8:37am

Hi Shia:  Do you have any other concerns besides blemishes on your cheeks?  Based on your question, I would recommend:

Homecare:  Green Tea Cleanser, Glycolic Cleanser used 2-3 times per week, Retinol Scrub used 2-3 times per week, Cucumber Toner, Ageless Skin Hydrating Serum, Vitamin C Serum, Ageless Skin Moisturizer and SPF.

Professional Treatments:  Perform a series of 30% glycolic peels once a week for 6 weeks.

This would be a really nice treatment for aging and acne without any downtime.  It will really perk up the color of the skin.  Yes, it is safe for Fitz 1-6.

Let me know if you have any questions.  Thanks!

Lisa

Permalink Reply by LSWSkincare on December 27, 2012 at 8:43pm

Lisa,

It appears I ordered everything except the products required for my skin condition. I did order the Green Tea Cleanser and Retinol Scrub. I do appreciate the advice and I can't wait to begin this treatment.

I do have a question, I'm trying to incorporate a menu for my services, based off the approximate cost per treatment provided in the professional product and retail book provided by Skinscript and the competitors in my area (Huntsville Alabama). I've performed different calculations and I feel like I can't find a fair medium. I understand each service is dependent on the skin type/condition, and you can't just sum that up in a phrased statement such as "Hydrating Mud Facial" and give it a price. Yet I want my clients to know upfront the cost of their service, without any surprises. What do you suggest?

Permalink Reply by Lisa VanBockern on December 28, 2012 at 8:55am

Lashia:

I looked at your previous order - one of the critical items you might consider adding is the Glycolic Cleanser (it's a wow product) that will work rapidly and effectively on the blemishes you mention above.

Pricing:  It depends (1) your clientele, (2) the economic climate of the city you live in, (3) your experience level, (4) the setting you work in, e.g., medi spa or salon/spa, and (5) other factors of expertise you may have. 

Generally, these are my thoughts on marketing/pricing.  Price your service so it is attractive to 80% of people (not too low, but not too high).  Make the price appealing that they could fit a facial into their budget once a month (think of your own budget).  Then you can make add-ons, such as massage, hands, feet, eyebrows, adding a chemical peel, etc. that could be added onto your service to bring up the price point.  If you start too high, the consumer won't consider the facial, but if you price it reasonably, get her in, wow her with your treatment, she could be a steady client that might add on to her services.

Think of a grocery store that prices milk at $1.59 a gallon to get you in the door, but places the milk at the back of the store so you have to walk by all the other items they have for sale; they are hoping the $1.59 milk will get you in the door, but you will purchase other items while you are in the store.

I, personally, price my services low so the every day person can afford it on a monthly basis; I see my clients every 4 weeks and their skin looks amazing because of this!  (Which then relates to referrals).  They then have the ability to tip me, plus purchase retail product (because I haven't gouged them on the service).  The low price point on the service keeps my facial book full (as full as I want it now), plus I constantly have referrals, they are all committed to the retail and purchase it faithfully from me.  I really feel good about my treatments, the service they are receiving, and their skin looks great.

In this world, there are Neiman Marcus, Macy's, and Target stores.  They are all targeting a specific consumer (wealthy, moderate, and economic-minded consumers).  All three stores make money.  Determine which consumer bracket you fall into and market towards them, but don't try to hit all three groups.  I feel like the scenario I set forth above targets the moderate consumer as I'm asking them to purchase (1) a service, (2) offer a modest tip, and (3) purchase product.

Long-winded answer.  I hope it helps.  Marketing/pricing is a topic that is ever evolving based on recessions, economic highs, and disasters such as hurricanes, tornados, etc.

Happy New Year!  Lisa

Permalink Reply by LSWSkincare on December 28, 2012 at 9:49am

Lisa,

 

This was just the answer I needed. I've been throwing numbers out there and getting advice. Truthfully, I want to provide services for the everyday person as well. In fact, I'm that everyday person and can relate to budgeting. I'm not trying to break the bank and I really want to work with individuals who are consistent/steady clients and have a goal in mind, which is "healthy" skin. When I'm listening to my peers, their prices are considerably higher than I would ever spend for a facial and for their expertise, being we're all newbies.  (Thank God I'm in this industry and can perform most treatments on myself!!!) I really felt silly when I set a baseline price of $50.00-$60.00 for a signature facial. In my opinion, this is a fair price fo the analysis and treatment. I view it at as the clients and my intial introduction to a long partnership. I want them to enjoy the service, trust me, see the results, get on a good skin care regiment, at an affordable price........

Ultimately, I don't want to push those prices on anyone. Plus, the expectation is higher for immediate results and the reversal of time!!!

 

By the way, I'm going to order the Glycolic cleanser and Gylocic peel today. I'm so excited!!!!

 

Again thanks for your advice and I enjoy chatting with you. Happy New Year!!!!

Permalink Reply by Susan Nathan on December 29, 2012 at 5:44pm

Lisa,

I use a glycolic clenaser, GlycoCleanse, with Nutrifoliant Nutrient Exfoliation Powder on my clients in office once I determine their skin type and condition.  You will be amazed at what nutrient penetration will do using nutrients and microdermabrasion crystals mixed with a cleanser (I prefer GlycoCleanse).  Truly astonishing results.  Nutrifoliant.com.  Or, email me to try out the product.  Susanleighnathan@gmail.com.

I am a licensed esthetician degreed in microbiology.  My product brand name is Nutrient Skin Care which offers a full line of nutrient powders formulated to address specific skin care issues.  Feed your skin.

Contact me with any questions or for product.

Warmly,

Susan Nathan

Nutrient Skin Care

Permalink Reply by Angie on January 7, 2013 at 8:10pm

This group is specific for people interested in and using Skin Scripts product line. Maybe you should consider starting a group for your products???

Permalink Reply by LSWSkincare on January 1, 2013 at 7:06pm

Lisa,

I've been using the Glycolic Cleanser and Green Tea Cleanser, scrub, and moisturizer as recommended. I've noticed I have some comedones on my left check and chin area (only). The same area where the blemishes are present. When I extract these comedones they're filled with white debris. Most of the extracted pimples immediately turned dark. Is it normal to get breakouts in a specific area? 

Also, when I use the glycolic cleanser I get a stinging/tingling feeling. It's not unbearable just different from my prior cleanser...... 

Permalink Reply by LSWSkincare on January 1, 2013 at 8:20pm

Also, I wanted to add my good friend is using the pomegranate cleanser, retinol scrub, and ageless moisturizer and she has some milias on her chin/cheeks. Nothing that alarms me or her because she does have some breakouts when her cycle is on. We can't determine if it's the product or female issues/concerns. Other than that I have no issues.

I do think the glycolic cleanser is a little to strong for my skin....

Permalink Reply by Lisa VanBockern on January 2, 2013 at 9:07am

Hi Lashia:

Yes, the glycolic cleanser is tingly; it's active!  How often after you using it?  You should be using it 2-3 times a week.

Regarding your question about the extracted pimples turning dark; how hard are you extracting?  Yes, this can happen if the extractions are difficult; don't worry it will lift.  I use the glycolic/retinol pads to lift pigment (they are our number 1 skin brightener).  Use them 2 times per day ONLY on the dark pigment; discontinue use after 7-10 days (or when the pigment has lifted).  Yes, it can be normal to get breakouts in a specific area.  You mentioned the cheeks in the beginning.  This could be a blush or makeup product you are using on that area.  It could be related to something internally, such as a slow digestive system, or it could be that use of your phone touching your cheek will create those blemishes only in that area.  Find the root cause and treat from there.

Regarding your friend that has milia on her chin/cheeks, I see that as a lack of free water in the skin.  Here's my feedback on milia:

We have bi-layers in our skin.  They are made up of oil and water.  We’re supposed to have the proper balance of oil and water among our skin.  A lot of us are walking around with not enough water in our skin.  One reason is we don’t drink enough water to get enough water from our dermis.  Another reason is that we live in a dry environment where there could be a lot of trans-epidermal water loss.  Think about the “main” area you see milia – it’s the eye area, right?  It’s thin tissue/skin and trans-epidermal water loss could be great in those areas.  If we walk around with a lack of water in our skin, the oil will start to crystallize into milia.

We have the Ageless Skin Hydrating Serum.  Number 1 – it is a hyaluronic acid serum to bind more water topically.  It also has an ingredient called sphinolipids – this ingredient will bind or emulsify the oil and water in our skin to create a bond to hold more water to create that proper balance of oil and water.

If your client has milia, have her start using the Ageless Skin Hydrating Serum morning and night.  The next time you see your client (hopefully 4 weeks later), the milia should be much easier to extract.  The next time you see your client (a total of 8 weeks later), the milia should begin to resolve itself and go away.

This Ageless Hydrating Serum also works great for acneic skin.  We have natural enzymes (glycosidase and proteases) among our skin cells that that break apart desmosomes to allow for the natural shedding of our skin cells.  If we are walking around with low water among our skin cells, we are going to have cells that stick together and not desquamate, hence acne or excess keratinization.  I believe one of the first and foremost jobs as an estheticians is to kick in the natural exfoliation rate and that will include the Ageless Hydrating Serum.

Hope this helps!

Permalink Reply by LSWSkincare on January 2, 2013 at 6:02pm

Lisa,

I was over using the product. I'm glad I experienced this myself rather than on a client. I am on my cell phone or office phone quite a bit. I thought about that last night after I sent the email. So now I'm disinfecting and using my handsfree earpiece, or at least being more conscience about the cleanliness of my phone. 

As for the black marks. I'm learning the best thing for my skin is to exfoliate and only extract when necessary. 

I did advice my client to drink more water. I even suggested she carries a 32 oz water bottle around to ensure she gets some water into her system daily. I'll be taking my own advice.

I appreciate you replying to my message. Again thanks!!!!

Permalink Reply by Cindy Greenwood on January 4, 2013 at 5:43am

Lashia,

I am fairskinned, but because I am in my 50's, I really cant' do extractions either without the risk of hyperpigmentation. It doesn't matter how careful I am!

I do want to give a thumb's up to the Ageless Hydrating serum...great for milia. Pair it with the Cucumber Mist for best results. Internal water is great too, but topical hydration is a must.

I have a client with milia around the eyes - it took awhile but now they are all gone. She doesn't even remember what it looked like! I shoulda taken pictures.

The glycolic cleanser is wonderful - don't use a lot and start out only twice a week. Like I tell my clients, it's 17% glycolic - which is a higher pct than some "at home" peels!

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