LNE & Spa—the magazine for skin care and spa professional November 2026
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Contents November volume 42 number 11
Featured Articles 8 Are Seasonal Specials Actually Profitable? 16 The New Era of Skin Analysis 30 The Holiday Booking Conversation Starts Now
Trending 22 Hot Products
FROM THE EDITOR As we close out another incredible year in the beauty and wellness industry, I f ind myself reflecting on something that has become increasingly important to me: the power of genuine human connection. This November, our issue is centered around the theme Beyond the Face, an invitation to look at our industry through a wider lens. As estheticians, we spend so much time perfecting our techniques, learning about ingredients, and investing in innovation. But what makes this industry truly special goes far beyond the treatments we perform. It's the relationships we build, the experiences we create, and the impact we have on others. This past October, we wrapped up our f inal International Congress of Esthetics and Spa (ICES) show of 2026 in Fort Lauderdale, and it was one of the most memorable weekends of my career.One of the highlights was hosting our very first Esthetician Edit LIVE, an intimate evening bringing together estheticians, educators, industry icons, and brands for honest, open conversations about our industry. What started as an idea to bring the conversations from the Esthetician Edit podcast into a room full of people became something far more meaningful than I imagined. What stayed with me most wasn't necessarily what happened on stage, but the connections happening throughout the room. Estheticians meeting in person after years of connecting online, seasoned professionals sharing their wisdom, and one esthetician with 34 years of experience telling me it was the best show she had ever attended, even though she almost didn't come.
26 Esthetician Edit 48 Editor’s Pick of the Month
Photo Feature 42 Brightening Solutions
Contributions Samantha Garcia Aurora Solis Kelly Chapman
Moments like these remind me that our industry is craving something more. In a world where so much happens behind a screen, there's something incredibly powerful about coming together, sharing our experiences, and having genuine conversations. As we look ahead to 2027, I'm excited to continue creating educational experiences through ICES that inspire, connect, and strengthen our community. This month's Beyond the Face issue reflects that same philosophy. It's about expanding our perspective on beauty and wellness, recognizing that the client experience extends beyond skincare results, and remembering the importance of caring for the whole person. To everyone who supported our shows this year, thank you for being part of this community. Here's to continuing to learn from one another, creating meaningful experiences, and building an industry that goes beyond the surface.
SAMANTHA GARCIA
Managing Editor samantha@lneonline.com 4
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Beyond the
Face The Growing Demand for Intimate Care and Body Treatments by Melissa Mercado For many years, professional esthetics centered primarily around facial treatments. While corrective facials, advanced exfoliation, and anti-aging services continue to dominate treatment menus, a significant shift has emerged within the skincare industry. Clients are increasingly seeking professional solutions for concerns affecting the body and intimate areas. From ingrown hairs and folliculitis to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, body acne, sensitivity, and barrier disruption, our guests are now looking to estheticians for guidance and treatment options that extend beyond the face. As consumer awareness grows, body treatments and intimate skincare services have become an important and evolving category within the esthetics industry.
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Beyond the face
The Evolution of Body Treatments
Traditionally, body treatments in spas were often marketed as relaxation services or luxury add-ons. Historically, many body treatments focused primarily on spa experiences rather than corrective skin health. Today, many estheticians are approaching these treatments through a more result-driven and educational lens. With increased interest in waxing, sugaring, laser hair removal, rapid weight loss, and social media beauty trends, the industry has seen a rise in bodyrelated skin concerns. Contributing factors may include tight clothing, friction, sweat, shaving, and overuse of active ingredients. These factors can compromise skin health in areas such as the bikini line, underarms, inner thighs, gluteal region, and back. There has also been a significant increase in body contouring and firming treatments due to rapid weight loss associated with medications such as GLP-1s. Treatment room conversations surrounding body acne, discoloration, irritation, loss of firmness, and ingrown hairs have become far more common. As a result, many estheticians are expanding their knowledge and treatment offerings to support the health of the entire body and not just facial skin.
Understanding the Unique Needs of Body and Intimate Skin
One of the most important concepts in body care is recognizing that the skin on the body behaves differently than the skin on the face. Body and intimate areas are often exposed to repeated friction, occlusion, heat, moisture, and hair removal practices that can compromise skin function over time. These areas may also
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be more reactive due to hormonal fluctuations, sensitivity, or inflammation. Many individuals accidentally worsen these concerns through aggressive exfoliation, improper homecare, or social media trends promoting harsh scrubs and products containing high-strength active ingredients. While these approaches may promise quick results, they often contribute to chronic irritation, sensitization, and increased skin reactivity. This is often due to a lack of consumer education, which is where the professional esthetician plays an important role. Estheticians must approach body treatments with a strong understanding of skin physiology, inflammation, and barrier health. Corrective body care is
not simply about exfoliating the skin aggressively. A successful treatment plan focuses on reducing irritation, calming inflammation, restoring balance, and improving long-term skin function. This more mindful and skin-supportive approach has become increasingly important for both the face and body. Many people present with sensitized skin caused by overuse of acids, retinoids, mechanical exfoliation, at-home treatments, and improper use of skincare devices.
The Role of Client Education in Modern Esthetics
As intimate care and body treatments become more common in the treat-
Beyond the face
ment room, education has become one of the most valuable tools an esthetician can provide to today's skincare consumer. Clients often arrive in the treatment room overwhelmed by conflicting information from social media, influencers, and online skincare trends. Many have attempted to treat concerns on their own without fully understanding skin anatomy, contraindications, or the importance of maintaining overall skin health. A thorough consultation allows estheticians to identify triggers, review lifestyle habits, and create customized treatment plans based on the client’s individual needs. Discussions involving exercise habits, clothing choices, hair removal techniques, homecare routines, and hormonal factors often play a significant role in treatment outcomes. Education also includes helping individuals to understand realistic expectations. Concerns such as postinflammator y hyperpigmentation, chronic ingrown hairs, and folliculitis often require consistency and ongoing maintenance rather than quick fixes. It is also important to explain the value of a “less is more” philosophy when working with compromised or sensitized skin. These considerations create an opportunity to build trust through client education rather than simply performing a treatment.
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body, creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment is essential. Proper draping, sanitation, consent, and clear communication help establish trust and maintain professional boundaries within the treatment room. Remaining professional throughout the entire treatment is essential, not only because of the areas being treated, but also because clients may have personal insecurities or past traumas that are unknown to the esthetician. Estheticians must also remain aware of scope of practice regulations and understand when referral to a medical professional is advisable. Chronic inflammation, suspicious lesions, severe acne conditions, or persistent skin disorders may require collaborative care outside the esthetic scope. Estheticians offering body services and intimate treatments should understand contraindications, infection control, ingredient interactions, and appropriate treatment progression for sensitive or compromised skin. Continuing education through professional training programs, industry educators, and brand partners can help build confidence and improve treatment outcomes.
Expanding Opportunities Within the Industry
In addition to addressing client concerns, body treatments and intimate skincare services also represent an opportunity for business growth.
Professionalism and Client Trust
Intimate and body care services require a heightened level of professionalism, communication, and confidence from the esthetician.
Many of these services encourage strong client retention because they often require ongoing maintenance and long-term treatment planning. Individuals seeking solutions for body acne, pigmentation concerns, sensitivity, or ingrown hairs are more likely to return consistently when they see improvement and feel supported by their esthetician.
Because these treatments can sometimes involve vulnerable areas of the
Additionally, working on the skin of the body allows estheticians to diversify
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their treatment menus in an increasingly competitive industry. As more consumers seek full-body and intimate skincare solutions, estheticians who are educated in these treatments can position themselves as specialists in a rapidly expanding category of esthetics. These services may also create opportunities for increased retail recommendations and package offerings. In many cases, products already incorporated into facial protocols can also be adapted for intimate and body services. Treatment series, membership and bundle packages, and customized homecare plans can further support client results while increasing treatment consistency and client retention.
The Future of Full-Body Skincare
The esthetics industry is continuing to evolve from beauty-focused services into a more comprehensive approach to skin health and wellness. Most individuals no longer view skincare as something limited to the face. Instead, they are seeking professional guidance for the health and integrity of the skin barrier, comfort for skin conditions, and the appearance of the skin on the entire body. As this shift continues, intimate care and corrective body treatments are likely to become an even more impor tant par t of modern esthetics practices. For estheticians, this category represents more than a trend. It reflects an opportunity to provide customized treatments, barrier support, client education, and confidence-building results in a professional and informed way. The future of esthetics is no longer focused solely on facial skincare. It is centered on treating the skin as a whole.
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Essential Oils Almost 29 Years Later by Robert J. Galamaga
In the February 1998 issue of Les Nouvelles Esthétiques American Edition, I had the privilege and honor of talking about aromatherapy and essential oils. In December 1998, a study I coordinated with the Touch Research Institute of the University of Miami was published in the International Journal of Neuroscience: Aromatherapy positively affects mood, EEG patterns of alertness and math computations. According to Copilot Search, as of August 14, 2026, it had been cited 227 times in Web of Science and over 113 times in Google Scholar and had an Altmetric attention score of 451,182. On September 4, 2026, it had been cited 227 times in Web of Science and over 686 times in Google Scholar. Not only can quality essential oils affect the mental aspect of a person’s being, but they can also have a beneficial effect on the skin, whether over a shorter or longer period of time.
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Essential Oils, Almost 29 Years Later
BEFORE
AFTER Because of the intense interest in aromatherapy and the use of essential oils, I would like to remind newcomers to the field of skin care and spa professionals of the basic tenets in that article that still apply today. History reveals that thousands of years ago, essential oils were highly respected and used as perfumes, cosmetics, and medicines. In fact, essential oils are mentioned in the Bible, and throughout the world’s church services during the Christmas season, everyone can experience the smell of frankincense.During the Middle Ages, when plagues were rampant, some of the gravediggers wore cloves of garlic to ward off the “evil” spirits, diseases, and plague. They were the ones who survived. With the explosion in the number of websites devoted to aromatherapy, most people may know that René Gattefossé coined the term “aromathérapie” in 1928. He began to study the medicinal effects of using plants after, several years earlier, he had burned his hand and thrust it into a vat of lavender essential oil and observed the wound heal in an unusually short period of time. Everyone should now know that true essential oils are the result of steam distillation and the collection of the
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liquid essences extracted from plants, trees, and flowers. Different parts of the world, “Prized Localities,” to quote Dr. Jean Valnet, provide a better growing environment than others. Essential oils are different from carrier oils, such as grapeseed or evening primrose, to name a few. Carrier oils are obtained by crushing or pressing the seeds to produce their oil. There are different grades of essential oils. A lavender fragrance oil is not an essential oil but a synthetic chemical compound that smells like lavender. There are also different grades of carrier oils.
Legalities on Use
This article is not intended to give specific legal advice, as each matter is
different, and each state has its own particular laws. “You, as a professional, and your employer are exposed to a lawsuit for your professional actions or inactions and can and will be successfully sued if your actions or inactions cause injury to another.” Obviously, this statement applies to all of your professional activities and is not just limited to the use of essential oils, should you use them in your practice. How do you avoid being successfully sued or losing in the courtroom? The simplest, though most complex, answer is “Do not do anything wrong.” If you are interested in using either aromatherapy or essential oils, or if you are already using either modality (and they can be different) in your
Essential Oils, Almost 29 Years Later
business, my advice would be to be properly informed and educated before you begin or continue offering those services.
Education
How or where do I learn about using essential oils?The answer to this question, at least in Florida, is very difficult to give, as there is still no state recognition or licensing of “aromatherapists, aromatologists, or aromacologists.” Accordingly, no standard of reference exists upon which to make a decision. While it is not an easy or quick task, unless a person specifically knows of someone who is reputed by trusted and informed friends or professionals to be a knowledgeable teacher in the use of essential oils, I recommend that you read as much as you can.
Before a person starts using essential oils or picks a person who is going to direct the initial studies, at least two or three books on aromatherapy should be read. This will give the prospective student an idea of the questions to ask the person who is presenting the class so that an initial impression of the teacher’s qualifications can be made.
Before Using Essential Oils
Before using essential or aromatherapy oils in skin care or recommending one to be used in baths for relaxation, the esthetician must know the properties of the oils. Just because they are natural does not automatically make them safe to use. If a client is on blood thinners because of a medical condition and the oil is known or reported to promote blood
clotting or thinning, it obviously should not be used. The esthetician must also have a general knowledge of his or her client’s medical condition and medication history to ascertain if there are any contraindications to using a certain oil or synergy with that client. (A synergy is a blend of two or more essential oils that results in a completely different chemical composition than the two individual oils.) If you are selecting and blending the essential oils to be used in a synergy and mixing the essential oil(s) with the carrier oil, you can now be considered “a manufacturer,” with all of the legal obligations and liabilities of a manufacturer.
Essential Oils, Almost 29 Years Later
Nearly three decades later, essential oils remind us that nature continues to have a place in the evolving world of professional skin care Contraindications
The following contraindications should concern you if you plan to use essential oils. The client must be fully apprised of, or told about, all contraindications to the use of essential oils, even if this means the loss of a sale. If your client: - Is pregnant: While stretch marks can be minimized with the use of certain oils, permission from the doctor must be obtained before using essential oils. I do not recommend that anyone who is pregnant use essential oils unless they have been approved for use by a qualified health care practitioner. - Is epileptic: I do not recommend that anyone who has this condition smell or apply essential oils, as certain essential oils can cause such a person to suffer a seizure. - Has high blood pressure: Permission from the doctor must be obtained before using an essential oil, especially if the person is taking medication. I do not recommend that anyone who has this condition smell or come into contact with certain essential oils, as exposure to certain essential oils, such as peppermint (Mentha piperata), will cause such a person to suffer a rapid 16
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increase in blood pressure as a result of exposure to the essential oil. - Has low blood pressure: Again, permission from the doctor must be obtained before using essential oils, especially if the person is on medication. Certain essential oils, such as ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata), will immediately lower blood pressure. - Is taking medication or is under a doctor’s care: Permission from the doctor must be obtained before using essential oils. Essential oils can increase or decrease the effects of the medication your client may be taking, and their doctor should be made aware of what the patient is going to use and give clearance for its use. - Is an infant or young child: I generally do not recommend using essential oils at all on children under 13 years
of age. (The before-and-after photos of the 21-month-old child followed a stringent course of using essential oils, with the dosages greatly modified.) - Is drinking an excessive amount of alcoholic beverages: I do not recommend using essential oils. The above list is not exhaustive but demonstrates some major contraindications, or situations in which essential oils should not be used.
Who Can Use Oils
Can I use essential oils in my practice as an esthetician?As an esthetician, you may use essential oils in your practice. You can make essential oils available, provided that you do not overstep your bounds; i.e., you cannot represent yourself as providing a product that is going to “cure” a particular ailment. Simply put, you cannot practice medicine or dispense a drug.
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Essential Oils, Almost 29 Years Later
If you do use essential oils, I feel that you have a duty to let your client know what the particular essential oil has historically been known to accomplish. Because of the overlapping properties of the oils, perhaps you may want to have aromatherapy reference materials available for the curious client to review so that he or she is fully aware of the properties of the oils. Remember that each time you manually apply an essential oil or synergy to a client, you are also being exposed to the oils contained in the synergy. At the end of a busy day, you may have overloaded your own body’s systems, so you need to monitor this carefully.
Certification
What is “certification” in the use of essential oils, and what does it entitle me to do in the U.S.?Certification means that someone has undergone a course of study with a particular entity and has met that particular entity’s criteria, demonstrating that the course has been successfully completed. If you are not otherwise qualified, such as being a licensed medical provider who is able to dispense a drug, being a certified aromatherapist does not give you the legal ability to prescribe and apply a certain essential oil or synergy to heal a certain medical condition. You cannot practice medicine or dispense a drug.
Type, Quality, and Grade
One author, years ago, stated that the fragrance of an essential oil is one way to tell if the oil is of therapeutic quality. “Just like fine wine, if it doesn’t smell right, send it back.” Be careful, though. With the sophisticated use of chemistry, synthetic oils can be constructed to smell the same as, or even better than, a natural essential oil.
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Quality essential oils are rated in grades of 1, 2, 3, and so forth. Most of the essential or aromatherapy oils that are found in the general marketplace, even though represented as “pure” or therapeutic-grade essential oils, are not grades 1 or 2.
sential oils without having the proper training, he or she may be exposed to civil liability should an adverse or unwanted effect take place.While the use of essential oils may not give the client an “immediate” fix, essential oils are known to help maintain and preserve healthy and attractive skin.
There is no recognized source that can qualify an essential oil as “therapeutic,” as “therapeutic” is just a marketing term. If the essential oil is obtained from the tenth distillation of the harvest, it can still be called “pure” but does not have the properties of grade 1 or 2 oils. An example I use is: “If you take a whole chicken carcass and gently boil it in 6 inches of water for 4 hours, what do you have? Pure chicken broth. Now, take that same carcass and boil it in 50 inches of water for 30 minutes. Yes, you still have pure broth.” While some essential oils have been certified as “organic,” unless they are actually harvested from plants that have been hydroponically grown in a greenhouse, they may not be shielded from unwanted pesticides, etc.Why? Because of acid rain and wind, like the wind that brings Saharan dust to South Florida every summer. “Organic” is also a great marketing term.
You Are Liable
Finally, history reveals that over the centuries, essential oils have successfully helped maintain and preserve healthy, attractive skin of all ages.There is now a general awareness of the benefits of using quality natural substances (grades 1 and 2 of essential oils), which, though difficult to find, are available. The esthetician should be properly educated before using the oils. If the esthetician intends to use es-
About the Author Robert J. Galamaga received his J.D. from the University of Miami and has been a member of the Florida Bar since 1974. In 1994, he commenced his studies of essential oils and, in addition to his private litigation practice, became corporate counsel for Miami Aromatherapy, Inc. and High Def Skin, Inc.™ since their inception more than 30 years ago. In 2001, when Miami Aromatherapy became an approved Florida CEU provider for massage therapists (#50-1341), he became its Director of Education. As High Def Skin’s™ corporate counsel, he is assisting it in launching its new website, highdefskin. com™, and its YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ HighDefSkin.He can be reached by writing to him at maioils.com or P.O. Box 432510, Miami, FL 33243.The before-and-after photos are used with the permission of Miami Aromatherapy, Inc.
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In an industry where advanced skincare technology, professional products, and specialized treatments are increasingly accessible, offering an exceptional facial is no longer the only way to stand out. Clients have more options than ever before, from corrective skincare clinics to luxury spas and independent estheticians offering highly personalized services.
Why Clients Want More Than a Facial by Samantha Garcia
While results remain a central part of professional skincare, the experience surrounding those results can be just as influential in shaping client satisfaction and loyalty.Today's spa experience extends far beyond the treatment itself. It begins with the first interaction, continues through every detail of the appointment, and often determines whether a client returns.For estheticians, this shift presents an important opportunity: to move beyond simply providing a service and begin intentionally designing an experience.
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The Experience Economy
Understanding the Experience Economy The experience economy describes a business environment in which customers place value not only on the products or services they purchase, but also on the experiences associated with them.Within the spa industry, this concept is especially relevant. A facial may address concerns such as dehydration, congestion, or visible signs of aging, but clients also experience the environment, the practitioner's communication, the level of personalization, and the way they feel throughout the appointment. Two estheticians may use similar products and perform comparable treatments, yet clients can leave with entirely different impressions.The distinction often lies in the details. Was the client welcomed warmly? Did the esthetician remember their concerns? Was the treatment explained clearly? Did the environment feel comfortable? Did the client feel heard rather than rushed?These interactions contribute to the perceived value of a service and can influence whether the experience becomes memorable.
Personalization Goes Beyond Skin Type
Customization has become a defining feature of modern esthetics, but personalization should extend beyond selecting products for dry, oily, or sensitive skin.Every client arrives with individual preferences, expectations, and comfort levels. One client may appreciate conversation and detailed explanations throughout the treatment, while another may prefer silence and uninterrupted relaxation. Some enjoy aromatherapy, while others are sensitive to fragrance. Certain clients appreciate
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Clients may come for the results, but they return for the way you make them feel firm massage pressure, while others require a gentler approach. Recognizing these differences allows estheticians to create experiences that feel genuinely individualized.The consultation is an important starting point. Along with discussing skin concerns and treatment goals, practitioners can ask clients about their sensory preferences, previous spa experiences, and what they hope to gain from the appointment. Simple questions such as, "Would you prefer a quiet treatment today?" or "Is there anything that would make you more comfortable?" can help establish trust and give clients greater control over their experience. Personalization also involves remembering details over time. Recording relevant preferences in client notes can make subsequent visits feel more seamless.When clients do not have to repeatedly explain their needs, they may feel that their practitioner truly understands them.
Hospitality Is More Than Luxury
Exceptional hospitality is often associated with high-end hotels and luxury resorts, but it is not exclusive to busi-
nesses with large budgets.In the treatment room, hospitality is the practice of anticipating needs, creating comfort, and making clients feel genuinely welcomed. A thoughtful greeting, clear appointment instructions, a comfortable treatment table, and an organized checkout process can all contribute to a positive experience.Small gestures can be particularly meaningful when they demonstrate attentiveness rather than extravagance. For example, offering a client a choice of blanket, checking the room temperature, providing a place for personal belongings, or allowing adequate time to transition out of the treatment can communicate care.Equally important is consistency. A beautifully decorated treatment room cannot compensate for repeated scheduling confusion, rushed consultations, or poor communication. Hospitality must extend across the entire client journey, from online booking and appointment reminders to follow-up messages and home-care guidance. Clients should feel that their time, comfort, and concerns are respect-
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The Experience Economy ed at every stage.For independent estheticians, this level of attention can become a significant competitive advantage.
The Atmosphere of the Treatment Room
The physical environment plays an important role in shaping the spa experience.Lighting, sound, scent, temperature, textures, and overall cleanliness influence how clients perceive a space and how comfortable they feel within it. Soft lighting may create a sense of calm, while thoughtfully selected music can establish a consistent atmosphere. Comfortable linens, appropriate room temperature, and an uncluttered environment contribute to the overall experience. However, sensory design should not be approached as a universal formula. Aromatherapy, for example, may enhance relaxation for some clients but cause discomfort for those with fragrance sensitivities, migraines, or certain respiratory conditions.Providing options, including fragrance-free experiences, is an important part of inclusive hospitality. The treatment room should also reflect the identity of the business. A corrective skincare studio may prioritize a clean, professional environment, while a holistic spa may incorporate natural materials, softer textures, and ritualinspired elements.Neither approach is inherently superior. What matters is that the atmosphere supports the experience being promised.Consistency between branding, communication, physical space, and service delivery helps establish a recognizable identity that clients can connect with.
The Emotional Value of Human Connection
Although skincare is often discussed in terms of ingredients, devices, and visible outcomes, the relationship be30
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tween esthetician and client remains an essential part of the profession. Clients may arrive feeling self-conscious about their skin, overwhelmed by conflicting advice, or frustrated by treatments that have not delivered their desired results. An esthetician who listens attentively, communicates without judgment, and sets realistic expectations can help create a more supportive environment.This does not mean practitioners must become counselors or assume responsibility for a client's emotional well-being. Rather, it means recognizing the importance of empathy, professional boundaries, and respectful communication. Trust is built through consistent actions.Explaining why a treatment is recommended, obtaining informed
consent, respecting a client's preferences, and acknowledging when a referral is necessary all demonstrate professionalism. When clients feel comfortable asking questions and expressing concerns, the relationship becomes more collaborative.In a profession built around close personal interaction, these qualities can be just as memorable as the products used during an appointment.
Creating Signature Moments
Memorable experiences often contain distinctive elements that clients begin to associate with a particular business. These signature moments do not have to be elaborate or expensive. An esthetician might begin each treatment with a brief breathing exercise,
The Experience Economy incorporate a warm hand compress, offer a customized scalp massage, or conclude the appointment with a thoughtful home-care review.The purpose is not to add unnecessary steps, but to create a sense of intention and continuity. A signature ritual should complement the practitioner's treatment philosophy and remain appropriate for the client's preferences.For a results-oriented practice, this might mean a particularly thorough skin analysis and personalized progress review. For a wellness-focused studio, it could involve a gentle transition into the treatment through calming sensory elements. What makes these moments effective is their authenticity.Clients can often recognize when an experience has been designed thoughtfully rather than assembled from trends.
The Business Value of an Exceptional Experience
Investing in the client experience is not simply about creating a pleasant atmosphere. It can also support important business objectives.Clients
who feel understood and valued may be more likely to return, recommend the business to others, and remain engaged with professional skincare recommendations. A consistent experience can also help businesses communicate their value without relying exclusively on discounts or competing on price. However, creating an elevated experience does not necessarily require extending treatment times or increasing operational expenses. Estheticians can begin by evaluating their existing client journey.Consider the booking process, arrival experience, consultation, treatment transitions, checkout, and follow-up communication. Identify moments where clients may experience confusion, discomfort, or unnecessary waiting. Client feedback can provide valuable insight into which details matter most. Rather than assuming that every client wants additional massage or luxury amenities, practitioners should pay attention to what their particular clientele values.The most effective im-
provements are often those that make the experience more intuitive, comfortable, and personalized.
Beyond the Treatment
As professional skincare continues to evolve, technical skill and product knowledge will remain essential. Clients still expect safe treatments, informed recommendations, and realistic approaches to their skin concerns. Yet the future of successful spa businesses may depend equally on how those services are delivered. An exceptional client experience is built through personalization, thoughtful hospitality, professional communication, and attention to detail.It is not defined by the price of the facial, the number of products used, or the sophistication of the treatment room. Instead, it is reflected in the client's overall impression of the visit and the relationship developed over time. Clients may initially book an appointment for their skin, but the experience they have along the way can become one of the most compelling reasons they return.
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1. Eminence Organic Skin Care • Barbados Cherry Enzyme Cleansing Powder • https://eminenceorganics.com/us/ 2. Hale and Hush • Incredible Enzymes • https://haleandhush.com/ 3. Skin Script Cherry Enzyme • https://skinscript.com/ 4. Herbal Skin Solutions • Super Booster Serum • https://herbalskinsolutions.com/ 5. DermAware • Bare Fruit Mask Part 1 • https://www.dermaware.com/dermaware/default.asp 6. Dehaz • Andiroba & Tamanu Exfoliating • https://dehazskincare.com/ 7. Hale and Hush • Refine Polish • https://haleandhush.com/ 8. Raya • Pumpkin Enzyme • https://rayaspa.com/
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The Forgotten Areas: Neck, Décolleté, Hands, and Body Why these areas deserve more attention in corrective and age-management protocols In the treatment room, the face has traditionally been the center of attention. From advanced exfoliation and collagen-focused treatments to customized skincare regimens, estheticians dedicate considerable time to improving facial skin health. Yet, some of the most visible signs of aging, sun damage, and changes in skin texture can appear in areas that are often overlooked: the neck, décolleté, hands, and body. As the esthetics industry continues to embrace a more comprehensive
approach to skincare, these forgotten areas present an opportunity to expand treatment protocols, educate clients, and deliver more complete results. After all, healthy, wellmaintained skin should not stop at the jawline.
Understanding Skin Beyond the Face
Although the skin functions as one interconnected organ, its characteristics vary considerably depending on the area of the body. Differences in skin thickness, sebaceous gland
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The Forgotten Areas: Neck, Décolleté, Hands, and Body
activity, environmental exposure, and underlying tissue influence how the skin ages and responds to professional treatments. The neck and décolleté, for example, can be particularly susceptible to visible photoaging. Compared with many areas of the face, portions of the neck and chest have fewer sebaceous glands, which may contribute to dryness and reduced tolerance for aggressive treatments. Repeated sun exposure can also contribute to uneven pigmentation, fine lines, and changes in skin texture. The hands experience frequent washing, environmental exposure, and contact with cleansing agents. Over time, changes in collagen, elastin, and underlying fat can make veins, tendons, and pigmentation more noticeable. Meanwhile, the body presents its own concerns, including rough texture, keratosis pilaris, dryness, uneven tone, and changes in skin firmness. Understanding these differences is essential when designing protocols that extend beyond facial skincare. A treatment appropriate for the cheeks or forehead may not be suitable for the thinner, more reactive skin of the neck or chest.
The Neck and Décolleté: Extending Corrective Care
The neck and décolleté are natural extensions of the face, yet they are frequently excluded from daily skincare routines and professional treatment plans. One of the most common concerns in these areas is photoaging, which can manifest as fine lines, uneven pigmentation, rough texture, and visible changes in elasticity. Repetitive movements and natural aging also
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contribute to horizontal neck lines and creasing. Professional treatment should begin with a thorough assessment of the skin's condition, sensitivity, and history of sun exposure. Gentle chemical exfoliation may help improve superficial texture and uneven tone. Ingredients such as lactic acid, mandelic acid, and carefully selected polyhydroxy acids can be considered depending on skin tolerance, treatment goals, and manufacturer guidelines. Hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and panthenol,
may help improve skin comfort and the appearance of dehydration-related lines. LED therapy may also be incorporated when appropriate, following devicespecific protocols and safety guidelines. Red-light treatments are often used in age-management services, although outcomes vary depending on the device and treatment parameters. Because the neck and décolleté may respond differently from facial skin, conser vative treatment selection and careful monitoring are especially important. Equally es sential is home c are. Encouraging clients to extend their
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The Forgotten Areas: Neck, Décolleté, Hands, and Body
moisturizer, appropriate treatment products, and broad-spectrum sunscreen to the neck and chest can help support long-term skin health.
Hands: An Overlooked Opportunity for Age Management
The hands are among the most frequently exposed areas of the body, yet they rarely receive the same skincare attention as the face. Daily activities such as handwashing, cleaning, driving, and outdoor exposure can contribute to dryness, irritation, and cumulative sun damage. Over time, clients may notice uneven pigmentation, fine lines, and changes in the appearance of skin thickness. Professional hand treatments can be a practical addition to an existing facial or body service. Gentle exfoliation can help address surface roughness, while nourishing masks and moisturizers support hydration and barrier function. Products containing niacinamide, vitamin C derivatives, or other well-tolerated brightening ingredients may be incorporated into home-care recommendations to address the appearance of uneven tone. For clients concerned about visible aging, it is important to distinguish between changes in the skin's surface and structural changes beneath it. Topical skincare can improve hydration, texture, and certain pigmentation concerns, but it cannot fully restore age-related volume loss. A simple hand treatment during a facial mask application can also introduce clients to the benefits of caring for these areas without significantly extending appointment time.
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Consistent use of hand cream and broad-spectrum sunscreen is particularly valuable, especially for clients who spend considerable time driving or outdoors.
Body Care: Corrective Skincare on a Larger Scale
Body treatments have long been associated with relaxation, scrubs, and moisturizing wraps. However, corrective body care offers opportunities to address specific skin concerns using many of the same foundational principles applied in facial treatments.
be referred to a qualified medical professional. For clients experiencing dryness and rough texture, barrier-supportive body products containing ceramides, glycerin, and other emollients can be particularly beneficial. Professional body exfoliation, back treatments, and targeted hydrating services can complement these recommendations. However, treatment intensity should always account for the anatomical area, skin condition, and individual contraindications.
Exceptional skin care doesn't stop at the jawline. A truly comprehensive approach considers the skin as a whole.
The objective is not simply to transfer facial protocols onto the body, but to develop treatments specifically suited to the skin being addressed.
Keratosis pilaris, for example, commonly affects the upper arms and thighs and is characterized by small, rough bumps associated with keratin buildup around hair follicles. Gentle exfoliating ingredients such as lactic acid, urea, and salicylic acid may help improve its appearance, depending on skin tolerance.
During consultations, practitioners can ask whether clients have noticed changes in skin texture, pigmentation, or dryness beyond the face. These conversations create opportunities to identify concerns without introducing unnecessary insecurities.
Body acne and follicular congestion are additional concerns that may benefit from targeted cleansing, appropriate exfoliation, and carefully selected home-care products. Persistent, painful, or unusual lesions should
Integrating Forgotten Areas Into the Consultation
Expanding treatment offerings begins with education. Many clients do not intentionally neglect their neck, hands, or body. They may simply be unaware that these areas can benefit from professional skincare or that certain concerns can be addressed within an esthetician's scope of practice.
A client seeking facial brightening, for instance, may also benefit from education about sun protection for the décolleté and hands. Someone concerned about facial dehydration may appreciate guidance on supporting the skin barrier throughout the body. Recommendations should remain per-
The Forgotten Areas: Neck, Décolleté, Hands, and Body
sonalized, realistic, and relevant to the client's goals.
or complementary additions to existing appointments.
between appointments while creating additional revenue opportunities.
Rather than overwhelming clients with an entirely new routine, estheticians can begin with simple adjustments, such as extending sunscreen application, incorporating a body moisturizer, or introducing one targeted treatment product.
For example, an esthetician might incorporate a nourishing hand mask during LED therapy or develop a neck and décolleté treatment that complements an age-management facial.
A More Complete Approach to Skin Health
Creating New Opportunities in the Treatment Room Addressing forgotten areas can also create opportunities for service development and retail growth.
Neck and décolleté treatments, hand renewal rituals, back facials, and targeted body exfoliation services may be offered as standalone treatments
These additions should provide meaningful value rather than simply increasing the number of steps in a service. Retail recommendations can also extend beyond facial cleansers and serums to include body exfoliants, hand creams, barrier-supportive moisturizers, and sunscreen. When positioned as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, these products can help clients maintain results
The future of corrective esthetics is not necessarily about offering more aggressive treatments or introducing additional technology. In many cases, it begins with paying closer attention to areas that have been overlooked. The neck, décolleté, hands, and body deserve thoughtful assessment, individualized protocols, and consistent home-care education. By expanding their perspective beyond the face, estheticians can address a broader range of concerns, improve the continuity of professional skincare, and create a more comprehensive experience for their clients.
EDITOR’S PICK OF THE MONTH AK Botanicals | AKti-Clear®
A concentrated botanical solution designed for precise, targeted application to rough, sun-exposed skin, featuring individually sealed ampoules formulated with extracts of Sanguinaria canadensis and Annona muricata fruit. akbotanicals.com
Skyne Beauty | Dewy PDRN Jelly Sheet Mask
This hydrating jelly sheet mask combines PDRN, vegan collagen, green tea exosomes, and beta-glucan to support the skin’s moisture barrier while leaving the complexion visibly plump, smooth, and radiant. skynebeauty.com
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DEHAZ Apothecary | Moroccan Rose & Honey Hydrating Face Mask Inspired by traditional Moroccan
beauty rituals, this luxurious hydrating mask combines rose botanicals and honey to nourish, soften, and replenish dehydrated skin while promoting a smoother, more radiant complexion. dehazskincare.com
Hale & Hush | Eye Mousse
This velvety eye treatment combines peptides, hyaluronic acid, daisy flower extract, and antioxidants to hydrate delicate skin, soften the appearance of fine lines, and brighten tired-looking eyes while remaining gentle on sensitive skin. haleandhush.com
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