ASCP Esty Talk: Ep 324 – Wellness at Home: Exploring Beauty and Tech with Sherrie Tennessee
Release Date: May 21, 2025
Introduction
In episode 324 of ASCP Esty Talk, hosted by Associated Skin Care Professionals, the discussion delves into the evolving landscape of wellness and beauty technology. The episode features Cherie Tennessee, a seasoned expert with over two decades of experience in wellness and hospitality, who holds a PhD in Hospitality Administration. Cherie brings her extensive background as a researcher, massage therapist, spa owner, and educator to explore how technology is transforming self-care practices both in professional settings and at home.
Cherie Tennessee’s Journey into Wellness Technology
Timestamp: [02:35–06:28]
Cherie Tennessee begins by sharing her extensive experience in the spa and wellness industry. Over her 20-year career, she has observed a significant shortage of therapists entering the field, coinciding with a rising demand for spa and wellness services. “What I saw was there was a shortage and there has been a shortage of therapists coming into the industry... at the same time what we're seeing is an increase in demand for those spa and wellness experiences” ([02:42]).
Her doctoral dissertation focused on wellness technology experiences, where she initially encountered skepticism about integrating technology into treatment rooms. Cherie highlights the emergence of massage robots and other automated wellness solutions, noting their gradual acceptance and the role of media in increasing their visibility. “It really was like this eye-opening experience of this is an option in the treatment rooms” ([05:10]).
The Dual Path of Technology and Human Touch in Wellness
Timestamp: [06:45–09:55]
Maggie Stasik prompts Cherie to discuss the inevitability of technology in wellness. Cherie envisions a future where wellness services bifurcate into two distinct paths: highly tech-driven options and premium human-centered experiences. “You’re going to have a very tech driven aspect... where it's probably cheap and quick, whereas that human experience is going to be... a premium” ([06:50]).
She emphasizes that technology will not replace human therapists but will instead offer additional options for consumers. Cherie asserts, “We are not trying to eliminate traditional massage therapists, but that there are other options” ([06:45]). She also highlights the importance of aligning with future client expectations, particularly those of Gen Z, who prioritize results and seamless experiences over traditional human interactions.
At-Home Wellness Technology: Accessibility and Convenience
Timestamp: [09:55–16:50]
The conversation shifts to the rise of home wellness technologies, with Cherie and Ella Cressman sharing personal anecdotes and observations. Ella mentions her recent purchase of an at-home IPL laser, reflecting the growing trend of consumers seeking convenient, on-demand skincare solutions. “I recently purchased an at home IPL laser... in a moment of emotional insecurity with hairy legs, I’m like, aha, I’ve got this” ([11:30]).
Cherie discusses the potential for technology to democratize wellness by making advanced treatments more accessible and affordable over time. She compares the current high costs of devices like massage robots to the eventual price reductions experienced by VHS players, predicting that similar trends will make wellness technologies commonplace in home settings. “I feel like that's what's going to happen in the industry... five years from now they worked out all the kinks and the price will come down” ([14:50]).
Innovative Beauty Tech Products on the Horizon
Timestamp: [12:34–16:50]
Cherie highlights some of the most exciting advancements in beauty technology. She describes the evolution of massage chairs that emulate specific massage techniques, such as Thai massage, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience. “One of the ones that I saw, it actually did almost like a Thai massage... I felt like I had had an 80 minute massage with like a 25 minute session” ([12:50]).
Additionally, she mentions innovative products like makeup projection technology, which allows users to visualize makeup applications instantly. Although Elle humorously notes potential mishaps with such technology, Cherie underscores its potential to make beauty services more accessible to a broader audience. “It was really cool to be able to see that in an instant and just kind of flicker through” ([13:50]).
The Enduring Importance of Human-Driven Wellness Practices
Timestamp: [16:50–18:46]
Despite the surge in wellness technology, Cherie emphasizes the irreplaceable value of human-driven practices, particularly esthetician services. She argues that technology has yet to match the nuanced skills of human practitioners, especially in areas like facials and personalized skincare treatments. “I think the esthetician side is going to remain strong because we don’t have the technology yet to do that great facial” ([16:58]).
Cherie also points out the necessity for professionals to specialize and deepen their expertise as technology becomes more integrated into the industry. “You’re going to have to specialize, that you’re going to have to be skilled because people are like, well, I have my LED, I have this” ([17:30]). She envisions a future where human therapists offer high-touch, personalized experiences that technology cannot fully replicate, maintaining their critical role in the wellness ecosystem.
Conclusion
Episode 324 of ASCP Esty Talk provides a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between wellness and technology, guided by the insights of Cherie Tennessee. The discussion underscores the inevitable integration of technology in wellness practices, the emergence of at-home wellness solutions, and the enduring importance of human expertise in delivering personalized care. As the industry evolves, the balance between technological innovation and human touch will shape the future of self-care, offering diverse options to meet the varied needs of consumers.
Notable Quotes
- “We are not trying to eliminate traditional massage therapists, but that there are other options.” – Cherie Tennessee ([06:45])
- “I feel like that's what's going to happen in the industry... five years from now they worked out all the kinks and the price will come down.” – Cherie Tennessee ([14:50])
- “I think the esthetician side is going to remain strong because we don’t have the technology yet to do that great facial.” – Cherie Tennessee ([16:58])
Connect with Cherie Tennessee, Ella Cressman, and Maggie Stasik
For more insights from this episode or to engage with the experts, visit the ASCP Esty Talk show notes or reach out through ASCP’s social media channels.