Podcast Summary: Call It What It Is – Episode: Call It with Vanessa Lee (Released April 7, 2025)
Introduction
In this engaging episode of "Call It What It Is," hosted by Jessica Capshaw and Audrey Evans from iHeartPodcasts, the focus is on Vanessa Lee, a distinguished medical aesthetic provider and the owner of "The Things We Do" in Los Angeles. Jessica introduces Vanessa as a key influencer in the aesthetic industry, highlighting her expertise and unique approach to facial rejuvenation and balancing.
Vanessa Lee’s Journey and Philosophy
Vanessa shares her inspiring journey from nursing to medical aesthetics, driven by her passion for the arts and a desire to help others feel confident in their own skin. She discusses the inception of her practice, emphasizing her commitment to prioritizing heart and honesty over the industry's typical focus on upselling.
Notable Quote:
Jessica Capshaw enthuses, “I've been stalking you on social media for, like, two years.” ([03:09])
Facial Balancing Analysis
The conversation delves into Vanessa’s trademarked facial balancing analysis. She explains that this method involves assessing the different thirds of the face to identify which areas need balance through treatments like bio stimulators, threads, and fillers. Vanessa emphasizes the importance of personalized consultations to understand each individual's unique facial structure and needs.
Notable Quote:
Vanessa explains, “We have a very specific consultation and initial assessment process... looking at the different thirds of the face.” ([10:44])
Bio Stimulators vs. Fillers
Vanessa distinguishes between bio stimulators and traditional fillers, outlining their respective roles in facial rejuvenation. Bio stimulators, such as Sculptra, work by stimulating the body’s collagen production, offering a more natural and lasting improvement compared to fillers, which provide immediate volume.
Notable Quote:
She clarifies, “Bio stimulators can be a few different things... they stimulate collagen in your tissues.” ([32:43])
Thread Lifts and Their Impact
The hosts explore thread lifts, another technique Vanessa employs. She describes how threads act as bio stimulators similar to sutures, promoting collagen growth and offering a subtle lift without the permanence or invasiveness of surgical facelifts. Vanessa shares her personal experience with thread lifts, highlighting their effectiveness and natural results.
Notable Quote:
Vanessa states, “Threads are dissolvable sutures that we use in soft tissue injury and surgery... it's a new way to stimulate collagen in your tissues.” ([47:32])
Addressing Myths and Trends in Aesthetics
Jessica and Vanessa discuss prevalent myths and trends in the aesthetic industry, such as "baby Botox," and emphasize the importance of personalized treatment plans over generic trends. Vanessa advocates for transparency and education, encouraging listeners to seek knowledgeable providers who prioritize their unique needs.
Notable Quote:
Vanessa emphasizes, “Patients should just get what’s right for you rather than what's fair for your provider.” ([70:08])
Rapid-Fire Skincare Questions
In a rapid-fire segment, Vanessa shares her personal skincare must-haves, highlighting the importance of hydration and specific ingredients like Alpha Arbutin and Alpha Oligosaccharide. She also touches on trends like skin toners and the role of essential skincare products in maintaining healthy skin.
Notable Quote:
Vanessa shares, “I love Alpha Arbutin. I love Alpha Oligosaccharide... it binds water to your skin.” ([59:44])
Conclusion
The episode concludes with Jessica and Audrey expressing their admiration for Vanessa’s expertise and commitment to natural, patient-centered aesthetic treatments. They discuss the importance of trusting and educating oneself when considering aesthetic procedures, reinforcing the episode’s theme of support and informed decision-making in personal beauty journeys.
Notable Quote:
Jessica remarks, “You can do this without touching the brows moving... you don't have to choose.” ([73:07])
Overall, this episode provides listeners with valuable insights into the world of medical aesthetics, offering practical advice and demystifying complex treatments through Vanessa Lee’s experienced perspective.