Throughout my esthetics career, I’ve noticed a common misconception in the beauty industry: people believe skincare should either be holistic or clinical. My truth? Bringing these worlds together creates the best results. Let’s bust this “either/or” myth together.
Skincare has changed dramatically over the last decade. We’ve swapped abrasive facial scrubs for gentle exfoliants, makeup wipes for double-cleansing and Face Halo pads, and tanning beds for SPF. It’s all thanks to the amount of information we now have available to us.
Today, we have so many resources at our fingertips about the ingredients in our products, and their effects on the planet and our health. As an esthetician, I personally love that we’re demanding more from skincare — and that the market is following suit.
Yet, there still seems to be a divide between the holistic and clinical sides of the industry. Most brands lean one way or the other, which, in my expertise, leaves us dissatisfied with the results we’re seeing (whether on ourselves or our clients).
Through a lot of education, testing, and research, I’ve discovered that the greatest way to achieve our skin goals is to combine natural, holistic ingredients with cutting-edge clinical products. Read on to learn why.
A look at holistic skincare
Holistic skincare emphasizes a person’s overall well-being and uses a combination of natural ingredients and lifestyle changes to promote skin health. This approach considers the body, mind, and spirit as interconnected, with skin being a reflection of internal health.
Benefits
There are many perks to natural ingredients, including minimal side effects, sustainable and environmentally conscious options, and the encouragement of health and balance. Techniques like facial massage, herbal remedies, and dietary adjustments can enhance the skin in a gentle way.
Limitations
At the same time, holistic skincare lacks rigorous scientific validation for certain ingredients and treatments. Outcomes can vary from person to person and tend to come very slowly, if at all. Moreover, without proper knowledge, natural ingredients can sometimes be misused, leading to skin irritation or other issues. After all, “100% natural” often doesn’t mean what we think it does!
A look at clinical skincare
On the other hand, clinical skincare encompasses treatments and products developed through scientific studies and medical expertise. This includes everything from prescription medications and laser therapy to advanced formulations like retinoids and peptides.
Benefits
The core advantage of clinical skincare is its ability to deliver targeted and proven results, usually more quickly. Treatments like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser resurfacing can address specific issues like acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines with high precision and efficacy.
Limitations
However, clinical skincare isn’t without its drawbacks. Side effects, high costs, and a focus on treating symptoms rather than underlying causes can limit its performance. I’ve seen how clinical ingredients tend to be harsh on the skin, resulting in dryness or irritation.
Why holistic-clinical skincare is the future of beauty
Combining holistic and clinical elements allows us to leverage the value of both approaches. Holistic practices support long-term skin health by tackling the root causes. Meanwhile, clinical treatments provide immediate, targeted results for acute skin issues effectively.
For instance, a person dealing with severe acne might benefit from a dermatologist-prescribed medication to manage breakouts while also incorporating holistic methods like a balanced diet, stress management techniques, and the use of gentle, natural skincare products to maintain skin wellness.
In short, holistic-clinical skincare brings together the complementary strengths of both sides of the industry.
How I practice a dual approach at the Complexions Skincare Studio
1. Customized treatments per individual
While my signature services each follow a similar sequence, I always personalize the session for my client’s skin type and current concerns. I take into consideration what’s going on in their lives, mindset, and diet as much as what I see with my eyes when they’re in my treatment room. A skin analysis at the beginning of every facial allows me to curate the holistic and clinical products and techniques I feel will benefit the client the most.
2. Products that merge science and nature
I’ve always felt drawn to mixing my own custom blends for my backbar, using raw ingredients to craft the holistic-clinical fusion I was looking for. Over time, I’ve defined this as my Holisticeuticals™ approach to skin and wellness. (In fact, you may not know how much of a super nerd I am, but I dove deep into sourcing, clinical studies, sustainability, and real science to create optimal outcomes for every skin type.)
If you’re curious about the handful of brands that I recommend for estheticians and skinthusiasts who value an integrated philosophy, read more: Top 6 Professional Skincare Brands I Trust In My Backbar.
3. Multi-sensory experience
If you’re familiar with my Signature 180° Facial, you’ll know I’m passionate about creating a sensorial spa experience that transcends skincare. I perform every session with sound healing, natural aromatherapy, and lymphatic massage to help clients decompress and luxuriate in total peace. By addressing all levels of a human being, my clients enjoy profound payoffs in myriad ways!
Final thoughts
The journey to healthy, radiant skin doesn’t have to be an either/or choice between holistic and clinical methods. By embracing a dual approach, we can achieve transformative, lasting results. The future of skincare lies in this harmonious integration, promising not just beauty but well-being from the inside out.
Coming soon: I’m releasing a new project (five years in the making!) that combines the best of science-backed technology with the holistic facets of alternative medicine — for your most luminous complexion ever. Sign up to be the first to know!
With love and light,
Jadé Marie