ASCP Esty Talk - Episode 301: "We Listen, We Don’t Judge"

Release Date: January 29, 2025
Host/Author: Associated Skin Care Professionals
Duration: Approximately 15 minutes

Introduction

In Episode 301 of ASCP Esty Talk, hosts Ella Cressman and Maggie Stasik delve into the nuanced dynamics between estheticians and their clients, emphasizing the importance of maintaining grace and understanding in their professional relationships. The episode explores contemporary challenges faced by estheticians, particularly in balancing business demands with genuine client care.

Shout Out and Industry Insights

Ella opens the conversation by highlighting the latest issue of Skin Deep magazine, praising its focus on customization—a topic she finds both timely and beautiful. She references an editor's note by Jen, which emphasizes that in the skincare industry, "it's all about you" (02:02). Ella raises a pertinent question about whether the industry's recent focus on business growth and social media presence might be overshadowing the fundamental client-centric approach.

Maggie concurs, reflecting on a broader societal shift towards self-centeredness and grouchiness, suggesting that this trend isn't limited to the skincare industry alone but is pervasive in the world at large (02:12).

Balancing Business and Client Care

Ella articulates the delicate balance estheticians must maintain between handling business responsibilities—such as managing social media, setting client boundaries, and building credibility—and offering compassionate, judgment-free care to clients. She questions whether the pursuit of business goals might sometimes lead practitioners to overlook the personal needs and circumstances of their clients (03:22).

Maggie acknowledges this challenge, admitting that while boundaries are necessary, it's crucial not to lose sight of grace and understanding towards clients, who seek their expertise and care without the necessity of being showcased on social media platforms (03:28).

Embracing Social Media Trends: "We Listen, We Don’t Judge"

Shifting the conversation to social media, Ella introduces a trending chant, "We listen and we don't judge," which originated on TikTok and has permeated various online communities, including those of estheticians. The chant aims to create a judgment-free space where individuals can share personal stories and confessions openly.

She shares insights from a Google AI overview, explaining that while judgment is a natural cognitive process used to navigate social hierarchies and reinforce personal beliefs, striving for a judgment-free environment can foster trust and openness in client relationships (04:11 - 04:31).

Ella provides examples from social media, reading submissions from fellow estheticians like Madison Morgan, Lainey Singleton, and Liz Ramirez, each sharing candid, often humorous admissions about their personal skincare habits (05:48 - 07:05). These anecdotes exemplify the delicate balance between professional expertise and personal vulnerability.

Maggie participates by sharing her declaration: "I hate going and getting facials. We listen and we don't judge" (07:26 - 07:45). She elaborates on her discomfort with receiving facials from other professionals due to inherent judgment, highlighting the inherent challenges in practicing non-judgmental care even among peers.

Skincare Ingredients and Practices

The discussion transitions to specific skincare ingredients and practices, with a focus on benzoyl peroxide. Ella expresses a shift in her perspective, acknowledging the benefits of benzoyl peroxide when used correctly—such as in short cycles or for spot treatment—contrary to its previously tarnished reputation (09:20 - 10:24).

Maggie shares her struggles with benzoyl peroxide, recounting frequent breakouts despite consistent use, which leads her to question the efficacy and proper application of the ingredient (10:32 - 11:25). Ella advises exploring alternative treatments like salicylic or mandelic acid, emphasizing the importance of personalized skincare routines tailored to individual needs (11:09 - 12:14).

Both hosts critique the industry's reliance on terms like "acne safe," "comedogenic," and "acnegenic," arguing that such labels are often misleading and oversimplified. They advocate for a more comprehensive understanding of acne's multifaceted nature, urging estheticians to consider individual client factors rather than adhering strictly to ingredient lists (12:05 - 13:05).

Maggie adds that while these terms are prevalent, they often serve more as marketing tools rather than accurate descriptors, stressing the necessity for estheticians to possess in-depth knowledge of ingredients and formulations to better serve their clients (13:05 - 13:48).

Personal Preferences and Professional Practices

Maggie candidly shares her long-standing skepticism towards eye creams, admitting to not retailing or applying them despite recognizing their value within established protocols (13:52 - 14:08). Ella humorously suggests practical solutions, like placing eye creams next to the nightstand or alongside other routine items to facilitate usage, highlighting the importance of customizing client routines to fit individual preferences (14:14 - 15:11).

Conclusion and Listener Engagement

As the episode wraps up, Ella encourages listeners to share their own "we listen, we don't judge" stories, inviting them to connect via Instagram, Facebook, or email. She emphasizes the community's desire to hear authentic experiences, fostering a sense of solidarity and mutual support among estheticians (15:11 - 15:20).

Maggie reinforces the message by portraying herself as a relatable and understanding professional, further solidifying the episode's theme of empathy and non-judgmental client care.

Notable Quotes

• Ella Cressman [02:02]: "Here at ASCP it's all about you."
• Ella Cressman [09:20]: "We listen and we don't judge."
• Maggie Stasik [07:26]: "I hate going and getting facials. We listen and we don't judge."
• Ella Cressman [13:05]: "Acne requires an investigation. So I understand wanting to use this list, but relying solely on a list of ingredients... you may be missing something."

Key Takeaways

• Client-Centric Focus: While business growth and social media presence are essential, maintaining a genuine, empathetic connection with clients remains paramount.

• Balancing Professionalism and Personal Authenticity: Estheticians must navigate the challenges of presenting a professional image while acknowledging their own vulnerabilities and preferences.

• Critical Evaluation of Industry Terms: Terms like "acne safe" are often oversimplified; a deeper understanding of skincare ingredients and their interactions is crucial for effective client care.

• Community and Support: Sharing personal stories and challenges within the esthetician community fosters mutual support and professional growth.

Connecting with ASCP Esty Talk:
For more insights, to share your own stories, or to connect with Ella and Maggie, visit the show’s social media platforms or email them at email@getconnectedscpskincare.com. Stay tuned for future episodes of ASCP Esty Talk to continue enriching your esthetician journey.