Podcast Summary: The Treatment Room – Episode 158: The Power of Professional Help + 'The Maintenance Phase'

Release Date: September 9, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 158 of The Treatment Room, host Tess Zali delves into the critical role of professional assistance in skincare, particularly focusing on the maintenance phase post-acne treatment. Drawing from her extensive experience as a licensed esthetician and acne expert, Tess emphasizes the significance of seeking expert help and maintaining skincare routines to ensure long-term skin health.

Business Update: Launch of Mini Cleansers

Tess begins the episode with exciting news about her latest product launch—the Skin by Tessa mini cleansers. Designed as a travel-friendly version of her signature double cleanse system, these mini cleansers offer the same benefits in compact sizes, making it easier for clients to maintain their skincare routines on the go.

“I am so passionate about cleansing as the foundation for healthy skin. These mini cleansers allow you to cleanse whenever you need to without compromising your skin barrier.”
— Tess Zali [04:30]

She highlights that these products are not only convenient for travel but also serve as an excellent introduction for new customers hesitant to invest in full-sized products. Tess underscores the importance of proper cleansing in preventing inflammation and skin issues, challenging the common misconception that frequent cleansing can harm the skin barrier.

The Importance of Professional Help in Skincare

Transitioning from her business update, Tess shifts focus to the episode's main theme: the power of professional help in managing chronic skin conditions like acne.

Personal Story: Overcoming Chronic Pain

Tess shares a deeply personal story about a car accident a decade ago that led to chronic pain and how professional chiropractic care was pivotal in her recovery. This narrative serves as a metaphor for her approach to skincare—just as she sought expert help to manage her physical health, she advocates for seeking professional assistance to maintain skin health.

“None of us are experts in everything. It is such a sign of strength and intelligence to hire out for your weaknesses.”
— Tess Zali [25:15]

Professional Guidance vs. DIY Approaches

She critiques popular but often ineffective treatments like the Aviclear laser, emphasizing that while some professional treatments can help, they are not one-size-fits-all solutions. Tess argues that managing acne requires a comprehensive approach tailored to individual needs, which only a professional can provide.

“Acne is chronic, it is cyclical. What we're doing is managing it, not curing it. Professional guidance is essential to reduce the burden in the pore effectively.”
— Tess Zali [18:45]

Understanding the Acne Process

Tess provides an insightful breakdown of acne, explaining that it is a chronic condition rooted in hyperkeratosis—the excessive shedding of skin cells. She compares the acne-clearing process to managing a persistent issue rather than seeking a permanent cure.

“Most acne treatments temporarily reduce inflammation and oil, but without professional management, the follicle fills back up, and acne returns.”
— Tess Zali [19:20]

This explanation reinforces the necessity of ongoing skincare routines and professional consultations to maintain clear skin.

The Transtheoretical Model of Behavioral Change in Skincare

To better understand her clients' journeys, Tess introduces the Transtheoretical Model of Behavioral Change, adapting it to the context of skincare and acne management. She outlines five stages that clients typically go through:

1. Pre-Contemplation: Clients unaware of their skincare needs.
2. Contemplation: Starting to recognize skin issues post-vacation or lifestyle changes.
3. Preparation: Taking initial steps towards a skincare routine, such as purchasing products.
4. Action: Actively engaging in a treatment program with professional guidance.
5. Maintenance: Sustaining the achieved skin health through consistent routines and periodic professional consultations.

“Educate your clients on the maintenance phase is crucial because once they've achieved clear skin, they might forget the effort it took and neglect ongoing care.”
— Tess Zali [35:50]

By mapping her clients' progress through these stages, Tess highlights the importance of tailored support and continuous education to ensure long-term success in skincare.

The Maintenance Phase: Sustaining Clear Skin

The crux of the episode revolves around the maintenance phase, which Tess describes as the foundation for sustaining clear skin post-treatment. She stresses that maintaining skin health is an ongoing commitment that involves consistent skincare routines and regular professional check-ins.

“Once you've achieved clear skin, the maintenance phase ensures that you continue to protect and nourish your skin, preventing future breakouts.”
— Tess Zali [42:10]

Tess points out that many clients may become complacent after seeing improvements, forgetting the disciplined routines that led to their success. She advocates for continued professional engagement to reinforce good habits and adjust treatments as necessary.

“You're not cured because acne is chronic; you're managing it. The maintenance phase is about keeping everything you've worked so hard for.”
— Tess Zali [44:35]

Encouraging Professional Investment and Self-Care

Tess wraps up the episode by encouraging both clients and fellow estheticians to value professional services. She emphasizes that investing in professional skincare is not merely a financial decision but a commitment to long-term self-care and well-being.

“Investing in a skincare professional changes your quality of life by enhancing your confidence and ensuring your skin remains healthy.”
— Tess Zali [50:00]

For estheticians, Tess offers advice on understanding client stages and the importance of guiding them through maintenance, ensuring clients remain engaged and committed to their skincare routines.

Conclusion

Episode 158 of The Treatment Room underscores the indispensable role of professional help in managing chronic skin conditions like acne. Through personal anecdotes, professional insights, and practical advice, Tess Zali effectively communicates the necessity of seeking expert guidance and maintaining consistent skincare practices. Whether you're a skincare lover or a fellow esthetician, this episode serves as a valuable reminder of the power of professional support in achieving and sustaining healthy, radiant skin.

Notable Quotes:

• Tess Zali [04:30]: “I am so passionate about cleansing as the foundation for healthy skin. These mini cleansers allow you to cleanse whenever you need to without compromising your skin barrier.”

• Tess Zali [18:45]: “Acne is chronic, it is cyclical. What we're doing is managing it, not curing it. Professional guidance is essential to reduce the burden in the pore effectively.”

• Tess Zali [25:15]: “None of us are experts in everything. It is such a sign of strength and intelligence to hire out for your weaknesses.”

• Tess Zali [35:50]: “Educate your clients on the maintenance phase is crucial because once they've achieved clear skin, they might forget the effort it took and neglect ongoing care.”

• Tess Zali [42:10]: “Once you've achieved clear skin, the maintenance phase ensures that you continue to protect and nourish your skin, preventing future breakouts.”

• Tess Zali [44:35]: “You're not cured because acne is chronic; you're managing it. The maintenance phase is about keeping everything you've worked so hard for.”

• Tess Zali [50:00]: “Investing in a skincare professional changes your quality of life by enhancing your confidence and ensuring your skin remains healthy.”

Find More:

To learn about Tess's Skin by Tessa products and her virtual acne care program, visit freeskinbytessa.com. Follow Tess on Instagram @fdtessa for updates and community stories.