Episode 155: The Clear Skin Method with FaceReality
Release Date: July 26, 2024
In Episode 155 of "The Treatment Room" podcast, host Tessa Zolli sits down with Alex Hernandez and Kelsey Duke from FaceReality to explore their comprehensive approach to acne treatment. This engaging conversation delves into the origins of FaceReality, their unique Clear Skin Method, educational offerings for estheticians, and effective treatment strategies. Whether you're a skincare professional or a skincare enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into achieving and maintaining clear skin.
Guest Introductions
Tessa begins by warmly introducing her guests, highlighting their extensive experience in the aesthetics industry and their roles within FaceReality.
Kelsey Duke shares her background as a licensed esthetician with nearly a decade of experience, emphasizing her journey from working directly with clients in the clinic to becoming a pivotal member of FaceReality’s education team.
"I've been a licensed esthetician for... 10 years this year in November... I've seen the company grow and just blossom into what it is today."
— Kelsey Duke [01:44]
Alex Hernandez discusses his path from spa management to becoming an acne expert at FaceReality, highlighting his transition from treatment provider to education manager.
"I've been an esthetician almost 12 years now, and I've been an acne expert for six years."
— Alex Hernandez [03:15]
Origin and Philosophy of FaceReality
Kelsey delves into the founding story of FaceReality, established by Laura, who transitioned from a massage therapist to a licensed esthetician driven by her personal battle with acne. Initially a small clinic in San Leandro, California, FaceReality has grown significantly over two decades.
"Laura actually started off as a massage therapist and then went and got her esthetician license. She also was someone who had experienced acne before..."
— Kelsey Duke [05:16]
FaceReality was created to address the lack of specialized acne education for estheticians, evolving from shadowing opportunities to offering structured training programs.
The Clear Skin Method
Alex elaborates on FaceReality’s holistic approach to acne treatment, known as the Clear Skin Method, which is built on three foundational pillars:
- Home Care Routine: Emphasizes the importance of daily skincare practices controlled by clients.
- Professional Treatments: Involves targeted treatments and extractions performed by professionals.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Incorporates changes in diet, habits, and other lifestyle factors to support skin health.
"The Clear Skin method is our holistic approach, focusing on home care, professional treatments, and lifestyle."
— Alex Hernandez [10:06]
This method ensures a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan, allowing for customization based on individual skin types and needs.
Training and Education for Estheticians
FaceReality offers extensive training programs designed to equip estheticians with in-depth knowledge about acne biology, effective treatment protocols, and client management strategies. The training covers identifying various skin and acne types, selecting appropriate treatments, and providing lifestyle coaching.
"With this training, they can expect comprehensive knowledge, consultation packets, and client handouts to fully equip them to treat acne."
— Alex Hernandez [16:14]
The courses are versatile, benefiting estheticians regardless of whether they use FaceReality products, by focusing on fundamental acne treatment principles.
Effective Treatment Strategies: Benzoyl Peroxide and Differentiating Purging
A significant portion of the discussion centers on the use of Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) in acne treatment. Kelsey and Alex emphasize the importance of proper usage to avoid common issues like over-drying and irritation.
"BPO is the most effective ingredient we know of for acne. It’s about how you use it."
— Alex Hernandez [32:06]
They also address the often-confused concept of purging versus regular acne breakouts. Purging occurs when treatments accelerate the clearing process, bringing underlying lesions to the surface more rapidly than usual.
"Purging occurs when treatments accelerate the clearing process, bringing lesions to the surface faster."
— Alex Hernandez [40:49]
Understanding this distinction helps estheticians manage client expectations and maintain trust during the treatment process.
Supplementation for Skin Health
FaceReality has expanded its offerings to include supplements that support skin health from within. Kelsey introduces products like Clear Skin Balance and Clear Skin Restore, which contain essential nutrients such as omega-3s, probiotics, and vitamins aimed at reducing inflammation and promoting overall skin wellness.
"Our supplements, like the Clear Skin Balance, include omega-3s, vitamin D3, vitamin A, vitamin E, and a proprietary brightening blend."
— Kelsey Duke [49:53]
These supplements are designed to complement topical treatments, offering a holistic approach to acne management.
Favorite Products and Future Plans
The guests share their favorite FaceReality products, highlighting the efficacy and versatility of items like the Mandelic Serum and Hydrocalm Mask. They also tease upcoming products and ongoing developments, ensuring listeners that innovative solutions are on the horizon.
"My favorite product is the Mandelic Serum; it’s brightening and antibacterial, perfect for most skin types."
— Kelsey Duke [55:28]
Alex adds excitement about future product launches while keeping specific details under wraps.
"My favorite product has yet to be seen. Stay excited!"
— Alex Hernandez [54:02]
Conclusion and Social Media
In closing, Alex and Kelsey encourage listeners to follow FaceReality on various social media platforms for more updates and educational content. They express their enthusiasm for future projects and thank Tessa for the insightful conversation.
"Follow us on all platforms for different types of content, whether it’s in-depth YouTube videos or quick tips on TikTok."
— Alex Hernandez [57:14]
Notable Quotes:
-
Tessa Zolli: “We have this opportunity to get about this, you know, specialty of acne, which you can't get in school.”
— [05:16] -
Kelsey Duke: “Think of us as our acne detectives, really getting to know what questions to ask.”
— [18:53] -
Alex Hernandez: “Acne is so, so much more than skin deep. It’s so mental and emotional.”
— [22:28]
Key Takeaways:
- Holistic Approach: Effective acne treatment requires a combination of proper home care, professional treatments, and lifestyle adjustments.
- Educational Gap: There is a significant need for specialized acne education among estheticians, which FaceReality addresses through comprehensive training programs.
- Proper Use of Treatments: Understanding the correct application and potential side effects of treatments like BPO is crucial for successful acne management.
- Supplement Support: Internal supplementation can play a vital role in enhancing the efficacy of topical treatments and overall skin health.
- Client Education and Trust: Clear communication about the treatment process, including managing expectations around purging, helps build trust and ensures better client outcomes.
This episode serves as a valuable resource for skincare professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of acne treatment and for anyone interested in achieving clearer skin through a well-rounded, informed approach.
Stay Connected with FaceReality:
- Instagram & TikTok: @FaceRealitySkincare
- Alex Hernandez: @hello.hernandez
- Kelsey Duke: @sd.kelsey (TikTok)
Follow them on all platforms for the latest updates, tips, and educational content.