amunge15@gmail.com, Author at NASNPRO - National Aesthetic Spa Network

Ultrasound technology has been a mainstay technology in the medical field for many years, offering therapeutic benefits in physical therapy and medical imaging. It has recently seen a surge of popularity in the esthetician community with the creation of body contouring and facial toning devices. Whether used in the medical (more…)

Even if your books are full and your business thriving, if you’re anything like me, you probably still find yourself setting new goals to accomplish. After over 30 years behind the chair, I still feel like I’m always setting my mind to something new I want to do. Usually, it’s (more…)

As estheticians we come across a lot of skin conditions and concerns, some easy to treat others not so much. One of the most difficult to treat is rosacea. This chronic inflammatory skin condition typically affects individuals ages 30-60 along the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin. Showing up as redness, (more…)

EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor) has become one of the secrets to achieving healthy and glowing skin. Sun damage, smoking, poor diet, and stress are a few of the reasons that make our skin appear less radiant and ageless. Growth factor serums are a great addition to one’s skincare regimen. Topical (more…)

As an esthetician, you may find it challenging to compete with larger skincare companies and spa businesses online with more marketing experience and larger budgets. However, there are still effective grassroots marketing strategies (also known as “The Old School Method”) that we often forget but can help you gain exposure (more…)

Facial resurfacing as a concept can be traced back to 1500 BCE, where the ingenious Egyptians allegedly used sandpaper to improve visible scars. However, it wasn’t until the early 1900s that modern dermabrasion – a procedure aimed at promoting skin rejuvenation – was developed. The technique has been continuously modified (more…)

It’s no secret that the skin protects the body from things like viruses, pathogens, environmental impact and more. However, we take little time to consider what we can do to help protect the skin that works so hard to protect the body. Sure, we all know to encourage our clients (more…)

Diabetic and oncology clients face distinct skin relief needs due to their health conditions and treatments. However, a non-toxic, high-quality body care line can significantly provide relief for both groups. Additionally, licensed beauty professionals catering to individuals who identify as immune compromised have the opportunity to expand their business by (more…)

As a dermatology nurse, I’ve had the privilege of working with patients who have various skin conditions, including melanoma. While my job is fulfilling, I must admit, it’s disheartening to see the number of people who still use tanning beds despite knowing the risks associated with them. Recently, I was (more…)

What is Autophagy? Autophagy is a biological cellular process that involves the degradation and recycling of cellular components. It is your body’s way of cleaning out damaged cells to regenerate newer, healthier cells. As we age, our body’s autophagic ability decreases, leading to cellular damage and visible signs of aging. (more…)

Sunscreen is an essential part of daily skincare routine. It is a product that everyone should use, regardless of their age, gender, or skin type. Sunscreen is particularly important for those who spend a lot of time outdoors or under the sun. This includes athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and people who (more…)

When pregnant, one will need to be really looking out what they are putting on their skin. For estheticians, we want to to support the mom to be while their body is changing, so will be their skin. We know that as soon as a mom finds out that she (more…)

As a web designer, I often hear, “Had a web designer, but they are nowhere to be found and my site needs help!” The next frustration is, “Tried to build my own site – it looks terrible, HELP!” These got me thinking about the most important aspects of creating an (more…)

As you begin to develop a loyal clientele and establish your spa, it is of utmost importance to ensure your space is welcoming, aesthetically pleasing, and functionally maximized in design—while also being on-brand for your business. First impressions begin at your entrance: the reception area. Build a lasting first impression (more…)

Although there is no magic extract that will stop the aging altogether, a well formulated eye cream can really improve the overall appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The skin around the eyes is thinner and more fragile, prone to dryness, and quicker to show the visible signs of age (more…)

The first few ingredients are the most important. If the number of ingredients exceeds 30, leave that product on the shelf! Do you seek a budget-friendly vs a more expensive facial oil? The most important step is to check out the product’s ingredients. The list can be a bit too (more…)

The beauty industry has been embracing natural ingredients for years, with a growing demand for products and treatments that are safe, effective, and environmentally friendly. One such natural alternative for rejuvenation treatments is the herbal peel with spicules. This derma-infusion treatment uses microcrystals extracted from herbs, which create controlled injuries (more…)

Injections will filler agents are becoming increasingly popular as a treatment for wrinkles and soft tissue augmentation. There are complications from fillers and patients can experience infection, nodules, hypersensitivity and vascular occlusion. For consumers wanting to look like the latest movie star or songbird maven, there may be a cautionary (more…)

The subject of skincare is not only complex it’s infinite. It seems like new brands and ingredients pop up overnight. Add in all the other variables to consider like skin type, the variety of concerns, new trends and the constant evolution of understanding surrounding skincare and skin health, and we (more…)

Sunless tanning has really come a long way, no more orange. Tips for a sensational glow. What is DHA and how does it “tan”skin? DHA stands for dihydroxyacetone – the active ingredient in most self-tanning products. “A sugar derived active produced by a natural fermentation process, DHA reacts with amino (more…)

Eye irritation is a common complaint among consumers, which can happen purchasing a retail eye product. Common complaints from customers may be itching, redness, watering, and styes. Ocular inflammation can be very serious and cause long term damage such as permanent dryness or vision issues. This is extremely concerning, and there (more…)

Acquiring epidermal minor skin irregularities can cause distress for many. Just like clients with skin of color or higher Fitzpatrick type 4 or 5, just like actor Morgan Freeman who recently shared his experience struggling with skin tags in an interview with CBS Sunday Morning. Fortunately, there are safe treatments (more…)

Over the past 3 years of isolation, distancing, and lockdown, many of us surrendered to an unexpected journey of self-discovery. This was cathartic for some but for others it may have been an unsettling trek through anxiety, depression and trauma. Self-discovery can often unearth feelings and emotions that were buried deep (more…)

Scars can come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors. Not only do the appearance and anatomy of these scars differ, when they appear, their intensity, as well as their size can also be unpredictable and slightly inconvenient. The inconvenience can be anatomical, such as a nice little scar on (more…)

Indulging your skin in a deliciously scented serum or moisturizer is a key element of the self-care experience. But when it comes to adding scents in the clean skincare industry, many are unsure of their stance. We all care about the ingredients that go on our skin, but should fragrances (more…)

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it’s also one of the hardest working. Every day it protects you from dangers large and small, and it faces an enormous amount of stress from UV rays, bacteria, viruses, pollution, and literally thousands of man-made chemicals. Yet the skin is also (more…)

There are many myths surrounding the reason women get wrinkles around the lips. Men get them as well—but for different reasons and usually when they are into advanced age. They can appear in females as young as 35 and deepen with time if not treated. Women with thinner lips and (more…)

Menopause for past generations was something to suffer through silently with a bit of dread, self-pity and dare I say humiliation. However, that is shifting thanks to the rise in the female voice in media and holistic therapies becoming more mainstream. As an esthetician and a daughter who has a (more…)

There are many benefits to using alpha hydroxy acids in the treatment room and at home. We know that lactic acid has a gentle way of exfoliating the skin while having a humectant property that helps to prevent dehydration. Glycolic acid has a beautiful way of cutting through very oily (more…)

From your social media profile descriptions to your website and about page, a bio is an essential start to building your business, your clientele and establishing you as a professional. Your bio is telling people why they should connect with you from choosing you as their esthetician to asking you (more…)

As a marketing consultant, most clients express to me that they primarily use social media to promote their business. Now, this form of digital marketing can have an impact on a brand’s reach, but it must be viewed as a component of a marketing blueprint. For the past decade, I (more…)

For those living in colder weather states such as the Northeast, over the holidays many experienced major flight delays and harsh winter weather. Numerous states experienced extreme temperatures that dipped to -35 below zero causing many issues such as frozen pipes, flooding, fires and electricity to go out in businesses (more…)

According to the Mayo Clinic, jet lag, also called jet lag disorder, is a temporary sleep problem that can affect anyone who quickly travels across several time zones. Traveling is no joke these days, especially internationally. On a recent trip to Australia, let me share about our travel schedule. Our first leg (more…)

I have always believed that being kind to others is the fastest way to become successful. This is one of the most important attributes you can have as a person. This characteristic will help you with growing your business as well as in life! I talk about being kind in (more…)

Perfection. It’s what we all strive for in life, our families and business but beginning at a very young age, it’s the perfection of the reflection we see in the mirror that becomes a daily goal. From the moment we notice that first “flaw,” perhaps a small whitehead or the (more…)

If you are paying attention to any news lately you likely have heard grumbling about a recession. You may even be seeing a decline with your clients spending money. I would like to ask you to take a deep breath and remind you we have been through tough financial times (more…)

It has been said that building solid relationships with those with whom we share our time is vital for us to truly experience life’s journey. As therapeutic providers, we need to remember that developing relationships when working with our clients is essential. We are there to celebrate big events with (more…)

As someone who worked behind the chair for more than 30 years, I always wanted to figure out how to streamline my business so that the general operations were smoother. I spent a lot of time tracking inventory, digging out client cards to look at formulas, and making phone calls (more…)

When it comes to achieving an enviously glowing, healthy complexion, chirally correct skincare is one beauty trend worth caring about. In this article, discover everything you need to know about how certain chiral molecules can help you enhance a skincare line. What is Chirally Correct Skincare? Over the years, pharmaceutical (more…)

The craving to adorn is as old as humanity is and deserves to be honored. Herbal Skin Solutions is devoted to creating skincare product experiences that make us feel blissfully, beautiful inside and out. They are inviting us to elevate the way we think about applying skincare by connecting the (more…)

Do you add LUNAR PHASES to your social media spa campaigns? Here’s why you should. Over the course of a calendar year, the moon’s phases alter between the dim glow of a crescent and the full luster of a spotlight. It may be hard to believe that these phases can (more…)

Do you find it ironic that in an industry where wellness aimed at renewing the body, mind, and spirit through therapeutic and professional services is promoted, that our own wellbeing can be easily overlooked? Afterall, it is the spa professional’s responsibility to create a nurturing haven and relaxing experience where (more…)

Never has sustainability gained so much emphasis as now. For good reason. Global lockdowns caused by Covid-19 which resulted in shortages in all areas but made Nature thrive and get a break. This made people aware of how dependent we are, how much impact we truly have – negatively but (more…)

I have been a licensed esthetician and clean beauty lover for over twenty-three years. It has always been my passion to find the healthiest choice available. I am so pleased to see how the beauty industry has evolved and how healthy beauty brands like the one I work for sets (more…)

Every couple years I stumble down a rabbit hole of an obscure social media trend or an article. In 2009, I asked NASNPRO Members and incredible Estheticians, Linda Rae and Sherry Taylor to write an article about kitty litter as an exfoliant and their first question was WHY? After a (more…)

I recently had the opportunity to visit the Edgar Cayce Wellness Spa in Virginia Beach, VA. Established in 1931 by Edgar Cayce. He has been called the father of the modern-day holistic moment. I had a 90 minute body service which included an Abdominal Castor Oil Pack, massage and foot (more…)

What’s the first thing you do when picking up almost any product? Most likely, you smell it. What’s the next thing you do? You respond with emotion and feeling. This is often done unconsciously and prior to an attempt to identify the odor. Your like, dislike or indifference to a (more…)

Lasers offer the latest technology in disease management in both the aesthetic and medical field. Laser therapy is non-invasive with little if any down time after treatment. Laser benefits outweigh any risks in providing clients optimal clinical outcomes which makes laser therapy a safe and effective therapy. AESTHETICS and how (more…)

If you live in an area that has all 4 seasons, you are probably also one of those yearning for Spring to come. When it is finally there, everything starts to bloom and along with it – allergies. Besides of runny noses and watery eyes, many suffer from itchy skin. (more…)

Acrochordons most commonly appear on the neck, axillary, groin, and inframammary regions. A skin tag (acrochordon) is a common, possibly inherited condition that manifests as small, flesh-colored growths on a thin stalk. Viewing these tabs of skin in the treatment room can be alarming. We get concerned and may ask (more…)

With so many skin care products out there marketing themselves or their ingredients as the latest and greatest, how do you know what is hyperbole or credible? Innovations in the beauty industry can be confusing as some deliver on their proposition and are supported by credible clinical testing and others (more…)

Getting started in the industry isn’t difficult but you will need to do a little research in your state. Do you need to have a special license or city permit? Do you want to be solo or a part of a team? What style of makeup are you going to (more…)

If there is ever a day to have flawless, glowing skin, it would be one’s wedding day! Not only is the betrothed center stage for all to see, but, is forever captured in images that will be viewed by generations to follow, a lasting remembrance of a most happy day. (more…)

There have always been trends in the beauty industry and there always will be. One trend and buzzword that is here to stay is Biocompatibility. It is often misunderstood, misused, and confusing. So, what does biocompatibility mean exactly and why is it so prevalent of late? The term biocompatibile can be used (more…)

All of us have had those clients that have no idea how to maintain their new look once they leave the salon, or how to optimize a service that you just provided them. This could be anything from a hair colour service to a massage or new tattoo. This is (more…)

Much has been made of the nasal labial problems over the years. In fact, I have always been concerned about mine! There are some surgical solutions possible, but not guaranteed to give the result wanted. There is a combination of several things that can “lift” this problematic area, but heredity, (more…)

Acne effects virtually everyone at some point in their lives, making it the most common medical skin condition according to the Academy of Dermatology. There are four different stages of acne that range from mild to severely inflamed. Grades I and II acne are considered acne simplex and grades III (more…)

Electrolysis as most of know or have done is a method of removing individual hairs from the body permanently. A trained electrologist inserts an exceptionally fine filament into the natural opening of the hair follicle alongside the hair shaft. A tiny amount of electrical current is then applied to create (more…)

Associated with well-being and health, the plump and luminous appearance of skin not only favors but also radiates youth. This is nothing new but there is a new concept or rather a new approach of how to achieve it: creating D-skin! D-skin stands for Vitamin-D-enriched skin, d-lighted skin, deep-layer hydration (more…)

There is already a silent but steady swing going on in our industry. As researchers discover more and more where the energies that run our physical bodies come from, skin and body treatments will take on a new slant. It won’t be “out with the old, in with the new!”, (more…)

Live streaming is the broadcasting of a real-time video to your audience through the Internet. Because your video is unedited where anything can happen it appeals more to consumers. Facebook reports that people spend more than triple the time watching live videos versus non-live videos. People also interact more with (more…)

“AIN’T NO TIME TO WONDER WHY. WHOOPIE, WE’RE ALL GONNA DIE” – COUNTRY JOE MCDONALD “Be afraid, be very afraid.” “The dangers are discredited and there’s no conclusive evidence.” “We’re screwed!” “Research has found no significant health risks.” These comments can address many topics related to our existence in an (more…)

The world has been steadily moving since we each individually joined. The Covid-19 pandemic brought our world as we’ve all known it, to a halt, which is something no one could have prepared for psychologically, emotionally, financially or professionally. Pre-Covid-19 we all were on a more even feeling playing field. (more…)

Orgasms are a biological delight. Not only are they a pleasurable experience, orgasms also have a multitude of positive health related benefits. What’s more, orgasms are good skin care! According to one study, orgasm improve skin firmness, elasticity, and radiance. With the growing sexual-wellness market, the spa environment can now (more…)

Ever wonder how some skin professionals garner an income of six figures or more? After being in this industry for 30 years and working side-by-side with some of the best, it all comes down to the same thing: loyal clientele. How does one create a loyal following? It’s quite easy (more…)

Myth – Skin Cleansing is necessary by Germicidal Substances? Skin has profound Microbiome, consisting of Bacteria, Viruses, Fungi etc. and skin’s overall health is highly governed and dependent on integrity of Microbiome. Germicidal Substances present in soaps, detergents can kill healthy microbiota along with targeted pathogens and it is highly (more…)

Figuring out acne has been my goal since I was a teenager, and it has been a very long road. As a college student and then young adult, I have taken a traditional route of antibiotics and even Accutane… just to see my acne come back with the vengeance. My (more…)

As we transition to recovery mode from a global pandemic… Life and beauty has been really affected. If we are able to continue to be flexible that does not have to be a bad thing. Its just different… As we start transitioning into our new normal (as the gathering restrictions (more…)

Moles, warts, and skin tags can be very embarrassing and the reason most clients seek removal. With the advent of licensed estheticians performing more and more advanced procedures it is critical to be able to identify not diagnose the difference between moles, warts, and skin tags. Knowing the difference will (more…)

Introduction Melatonin is an essential hormone associated with the natural biological (chronobiology) process known as the Circadian Rhythm that regulates our sleep-wake cycle and natural body cycles within a 24-hour time frame. These natural timing devices (circadian clocks) are composed of specialized proteins that interact with all cells throughout the (more…)

As licensed spa professionals our #1 priority has always been safety and sanitation. Since the pandemic, there has been a huge shift that reminds us of the hygiene and sanitation we learned in school and did at our state board exam. I have been a licensed esthetician and make-up artist (more…)

Being an Esthetician can be likened to being a detective. The hardest part of our job description is deciphering the subtle differences in skin conditions. Although diagnosing is out of our scope of practice, it’s always important to stay educated on common skin conditions, and moreover, the differences they represent (more…)

Every day in the treatment room is a golden opportunity to become a melanoma detective. Whether you are a skincare professional, a massage therapist, cosmetologist with emphasis on hair, skin, or nails, you can be the catalyst sending your client to the dermatologist. Not to be overly dramatic but it (more…)

The eyes truly are an entrance to many emotions, but the peripheral skin around them have been misunderstood by the AESTHETICS industry for decades. We often see ads depicting facial treatments with damp cotton wool or cucumbers over the eyes, ostensibly because skin surrounding the eyes is said to be (more…)

Cupping is a traditional form of Chinese healing therapy. One of the earliest documentations of cupping can be found in the work titled, “A Handbook of Prescriptions for Emergencies,” written by a Taoist herbalist by the name of Ge Hong and dates all the way back to 300 AD. An (more…)

Good ol’ 2020……………… Who would’ve thought this would be the battle were faced with? I’m here to tell you, we are in Q4 and we can still make a tremendous boom in our businesses. Let me explain. You see, we are hustlers. Being in the beauty industry is a hustle, (more…)

I have a confession, please don’t judge me! I recently visited Thermae Retreat Spa in Boardman, Ohio. The spa is an inviting atmosphere with a plethora of services and an amazing salt room. The 45 minute salt service $20.00 and they offer monthly pricing of $75.00 for unlimited use of (more…)

We live in a world of technology, where virtual consultations have proven to work very well. People are receptive because it is simple, convenient, and they don’t have to leave their house. Today’s market is about instant gratification, quick answers, and immediate results. Therefore, it should be effortless for the (more…)

Prior to March, your business was thriving and you were pretty happy about this year being your best ever, but then COVID happened and presented a lot of uncertainty. A few months in… and now consumer focus has shifted to online because people have been forced to do more stuff (more…)

Solo Estheticians and all entrepreneurs who are still paying full rent for your business space: NOW is the time to make a pitch for a better deal! We are now in what is called a “buyer’s market”, that is, one where falling demand and renters’ increasing inability to pay is (more…)

If I may pose a question. Do you remember your why? Why did you become an esthetician? Why pursue a career in the spa and wellness industry? Why be involved in the beauty industry? The why can provide stability and direction in the chaos of life and let’s face it (more…)

Nowadays, relaxation is more important than ever for clients as they visit the salon. Some may already feel cautious about being out and about during COVID-19. Likewise, others may be facing economic hardships. This is all the more reason that it’s important to create a refuge of relaxation in your (more…)

Rosacea itself is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder. But to better understand the sometimes-weeping lesions seen in older people- let’s follow the history of the disease. To me, the idea that the cause of rosacea is unknown or cannot be identified is a myth. When anything is chronic it must (more…)

COVID-19 has been a difficult time for many companies, but also an excellent opportunity for growth! And I’m here to share the best tips to keep your business thriving. MARKETING PRO-TIPS: Now is the best time to offer customized kits for a home regiment. It is also a great time (more…)

The sun is not our friend anymore. The protective ozone layer encircling our world has been thinning out for decades, intensifying the UV rays we encounter on a daily basis. Amazingly, as a result of the lockdown and stay-at-home orders due to the COVID-19 pandemic, satellite photos above China and (more…)

In March of 2019, Jennifer & Austine joined forces to create Facets of Hospitality. Together, they combine their 20+ years of experiences and skills developing businesses for success ASK About Special NASNPRO Member Pricing FOH “Getting an audience is hard. Sustaining an audience is hard. It demands a consistency of (more…)

I get weary of seeing products touted as “all-natural” in order to lead the therapist to believe that such a product is far superior to those that have long, unfamiliar words on the label that many people think are synthetic therefore no good. In actual fact, there is nothing wrong (more…)

One of the annoying things during this COVID 19 pandemic is that currently in some areas, hair salons are open but not esthetic clinics— as if they were somehow much less essential than color weaves and cuts! Ironically in most of Europe and the UK, aesthetics has always been totally (more…)

Over the last few years, we have seen Medical Spas change from being a trend to being a critical part of the industry. With that being said, we also see more and more Medical Spas popping up and creating heavy competition. So how do you set yourself apart to not (more…)

One of the most frustrating experiences many estheticians face upon graduation from their esthetics program, myself included, is that sinking feeling of “what do I do now?” Even the best of esthetics programs typically provide students with only a basic knowledge of the skin, focusing instead on the knowledge required (more…)

So, for many of us depending on the state you live in, we are six weeks into “self isolating” orders and nonessential business closures. How are you doing? What have you learned? Following are a few of my thoughts on life and business during this global pandemic. The real truth (more…)

Deidre Ramdhanie, National Educator for DermaConcepts (Environ US Distributor) In the midst of the pandemic, healthcare professionals will always be found wearing an N95 face mask. While detrimental, this is a definite way to sensitize the skin. A skin sensitization condition will manifest the same characteristics as a genetically sensitive (more…)

Your clients are looking to local businesses for familiarity, comfort and a sense of normalcy during these stressful times. The best way to calm anxiety and nerves is to communicate and keep them informed with updates about your spa, salon and practice. There are several ways to communicate with your (more…)

Author: amunge15@gmail.com

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