When you wake up and you’re having a good skin day, your day instantly gets better. Everybody wants that clear, glowy look that celebrities always seem to have, but how can you achieve this? We got to chat with Los Angeles celebrity esthetician and skincare expert Gina Marí to get the inside scoop on how to acquire some radiating, fresh skin.
Is there truly one, all-encompassing secret to good skin?
You should never forget to wash your face before you go to bed! When you sleep your body is very busy. Human growth hormones kick in, which are responsible for cellular turnover, resulting in collagen being rebuilt. Cleansing before bed will not only help remove environmental damage incurred during the day, but also assist in the process of skin repair and renewal.
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You became aware of your passion and gift for skincare when you developed adult acne. Given your expert knowledge and personal experience, what is your primary piece of advice for people dealing with adult acne?
The number one tip to dealing with acne is don’t pick! Acne can be very frustrating, as well as being emotionally distressing, and there can be an urge to just attack it yourself. My advice is to find a trusted professional and turn that job over to them. While going through the process of healing, I always advise my clients to toss their magnifying mirrors, change any harsh lighting in their bathrooms and evaluate their skin from an arm's distance away.
You have a unique approach to skincare renewal. Can you tell us more about it and what makes your technique special?
I’m a huge science and technology geek. I love the technologies that are available in skincare and I find the blending of them to be quite effective. My treatments are also extremely customized, which is why I tend to stray away from a “menu of services.” Our skin is our largest organ and what it may require today may not be the same as tomorrow!
Given the dry weather at this time of year, what are general tips to keep your skin looking its best?
Don’t be afraid to exfoliate during the drier times of year. Proper exfoliation can absolutely assist in deeper product penetration. Whether you’re using a physical or chemical exfoliant, make sure to follow with toner, serum and moisturizer suited for your skin type.
My skin has been really irritated by wearing a mask. Whether I have dry or oily skin, what are a few secrets to battling maskne?
This has been a huge topic of conversation and has caused considerable stress among my clients. I encourage everyone to not overtreat by trying to “dry out” any issues that pop up. I’ve been having amazing success by using more natural products, containing ingredients like colloidal silver and HOCL that combat bacteria without drying the skin.
What about as we transition to spring in a few months— can I entirely change up my routine on March 20 or should I be more gradual?
I encourage everyone to listen to their skin. If you’re feeling dry, add a bit of toner and moisturizer. If you’re feeling oily or breaking out a bit, use a gentle mask or exfoliant.
Celebrities always look like they are literally beaming. Is it possible for me to get that kind of perfect skin?
Our “red carpet ready” services generally include oxygen therapy combined with LED light therapy to achieve that lovely glow. If you’re looking to do a treatment at home, I recommend a quick enzyme peel, followed by a hydrating mask, followed by toner, serum and moisturizer.
You just opened up a new studio. Can you tell us about your decision to set roots down in Brentwood?
I’ve been in Beverly Hills for several years and I was interested in a change. My girlfriend, Heather Bradley, recently built out a beautiful space in Brentwood and we decided to become roommates! The space was formerly Star Toys, so the energy in there is wonderful!
You’re known as a top celebrity facialist. What is your secret to amassing an A-list clientele?
I gather my clientele by word of mouth!
See also: Nikita Dragun's 2022 Beauty Trend Predictions
Photography by: Courtesy Gina Mari
