Tom Branna, Editorial Director01.30.23
Rejuvenation is a key attribute for spa aficionados—it’s a good word to describe the spa market, too. After getting battered by the pandemic for two years, the global spa market is enjoying a resurgence. Grand View Research predicts the category will post a CAGR of 12.1% to reach nearly $118 billion by 2028. That’s no surprise to companies that thrive in the space.
“Spending in the wellness and self-care sector is on the rise, with 62% of Americans wanting to make it a priority,” noted Glowbar CEO and Founder Rachel Liverman. “We view skin care as just as important as other health services and aim to make skin care equally efficient, valuable, and accessible to consumers at Glowbar.”
Liverman’s vision is shared by investors. Last month, the company closed on $10 million growth funding.
“Glowbar is looking to define the category of ‘wellcare,’ which we describe as the efficiency and expertise that we expect from health services, with the accessibility that fits into any lifestyle or budget.”
Janna Ronert, founder and chairwoman, Image Skincare, said that the industry is bouncing back post-pandemic thanks to surging interest in wellness.
“Consumers are more and more focused on the importance of their well-being, mental health and stress relief after covid,” she told Happi.
“Spas were busy and the term self-care became mainstream,” she explained. “This is the spa industry’s dream come true, to be speaking to a consumer who understands and values the necessity of wellness and self-care.”
Spa owners are reaping the benefits of this newfound interest.
Kris Adair, CEO, Adair Family Clinic & MedSpa, Peoria, AZ, recalled steady growth in monthly spa visits, new VIP memberships, and requests for staple services like Jeuveau and lip fillers.
“Business in 2022 was great! We’ve noticed an emphasis on self-care and skin care,” she told Happi. “We saw an increase in visits for our natural facial rejuvenation treatments and custom facial treatments especially our 21 and over Bad Girl Facial.”
Bad Girl Facial, known as BGF, is an indulgent facial using wine and beer to naturally exfoliate, brighten, tone and hydrate the skin in a very unique way. Clients will leave looking ready for action after this restoring facial treatment, according to Adair.
“Skin is not a one-size-fits-all option, which is where our custom facials really shine,” she explained. “These allow our estheticians to focus on the specific skin concerns of the client and tailor the treatment to their skin needs as well as provide the client with education on their home skin care regimen which includes over the counter recommendations for continued skin care which our clients truly appreciate.”
Cute Looks Medispa, Boca Raton, FL, is owned and operated by Ebonee Blackwood, a board-certified nurse practitioner. It specializes in skin care, facial aesthetic treatments such as Botox, dermal fillers, PDO threads (polydioxanone), radiofrequency treatments and hair laser removal treatments, as well as IV hydration, weight loss management and more.
“Although it was during the pandemic, 2022 was a great year for my business. I made a lot of connections, grew my following on social medica, networked—that brought a ton of traffic in my office,” she explained. “My clients are people who want to take care of their health and skin, and stay youthful. Their needs have gone from restoring their skin, to facial balancing and rejuvenating facial treatment.”
Most industry observers who spoke to Happi agreed that 2022 was a year of gains for the spa and professional skin care markets. But Elena Brei PhD, founder of NuVsio, maintained the past year was even more challenging than the pandemic years.
“Cost points for raw materials skyrocketed by as much as 480%, shipping costs increased and supply of raw materials was scarce, with lead times remaining persistently troublesome,” she told Happi.
NuVsio is a Toronto-based maker of microbiome-friendly skin care products. Last year, the company introduced I-O Advanced Nutrition, a dietary supplement designed to optimize the gut microbiome while simultaneously detoxifying and cleansing the gut. Caring for the gut is important every year, but it was especially so during the pandemic, when stress-eating was endemic.
“Given the unhealthy eating trends we noticed in 2021 and 2022, we thought it may be helpful for our customer base,” said Brei. “We’ve seen great successes with I-O Advanced Nutrition in reducing and potentially eliminating unhealthy gut microbiota that can lead to a host of dangerous physical issues, including leaky and toxic gut, as well as with mental health issues.”
“(A recession) probably will impact those spa goers more than those visiting medi spas or medical care providers. We expect that spending on retail products will take a dip while demand for services will continue to be high,” said Dana Kreutzer, project lead, Kline’s beauty and wellness practice. “Certain membership multi-site outlets like Massage Envy and Hand & Stone, among others will fare well in a downturn economy. GlowBar’s premise is a 30-minute facial for $50. That’s definitely attractive to younger consumers.”
According to Pankey, with people still spending a great deal of time looking at themselves in virtual meetings, the desire to tighten and brighten continues to be a popular request.
“Technology, gadgets, tools and hands-free alternatives are also having their day in the spotlight,” she said. “Accomplishing more in less time and using technology as a way to see better and more long-lasting results as an alternative to invasive therapies has not quite reached its peak.”
Further, Pankey predicts that touchless therapy options and technology-driven wellness will continue to grow.
Glowbar’s core customer is female, ages 25-40, whom Liverman described as “newly independents” from all ethnicities and backgrounds.
“They are motivated by balance—health and wellness, social causes, travel and community—and influenced by social media, podcasts, influencers and peers,” explained Liverman. “They are opportunistic shoppers driven to shop based on value and crave personalization and experiences.”
Adair contends customers who have returned to the spa have a different mindset now.
“There seems to be a sense of ‘I deserve this’ or ‘I’m doing this for myself,’ toward spa services which I think is very empowering to see,” she explained. “For our spa, it’s important for us to allow our clients to feel these sensations and provide an encouraging and nurturing environment so they can relax and enjoy their treatments and leave feeling inspired and encouraged to continue their skin care.”
When customers are ready to head home from the spa, Adair and her team educate them about continuing with appropriately selected products.
“This trend is such an important one as people continue to experience post pandemic skin breakouts, rashes and hyperpigmentation issues,” she explained. “Focusing on these specific skin concerns with a customized treatment plan is essential for fixing these skin concerns for these consumers.”
Customized treatment options can include a hydrating acne facial, chemical peel as well as skin care product recommendations. Customers also appreciate recommendations for certain cosmetic products or brands may be provided to help support skin recovery.
Provence Apothecary Founder Julie Clark said consumers are getting more excited about understanding their skin on a deeper level and wanting to holistically support their skin.
“This has been our approach since 2012, but it seems like more and more people are interested in the holistic and slow beauty movement,” she told Happi.
Based in Toronto, Provence Apothecary reopened its spa last year and customers are slowly returning for treatments.
“For us, in Canada, having fewer pandemic restrictions was very positive and being able to see people face to face again was so wonderful,” she added.
Last year, the company launched a reusable silicone sheet mask set for face and eyes.
“It has been wonderful to experience the excitement around this product. It is great for the planet and your skin,” said Clark.
According to Provence Apothecary, one-time use sheet masks create thousands of pounds of trash that is not biodegradable or recyclable. Moreover, the masks are typically made of petroleum-based fibers, packaged in a non-recyclable foil packet or non-recyclable coated cardboard, sandwiched between two sheets of non-recyclable plastic.
Rachel Lambo, co-founder and CEO, Sade Baron, reports growing consumer interest in introducing body care as part of their overall routine.
“(They’re) seeking body care products that work and have powerful ingredients such as retinol, AHAs, vitamin C and other actives that can provide results, comfort and that are 100% clean,” she said.
Sade Baron’s Tai Body Oil and Bond Salve are both fragrance-free. They contain plant-powered ingredients, too.
“Customers love how quick absorbing and how the oil worked on skin soothing, calming their skin. It definitely is a game-changing product to include in your body care routine. The before-and-after images we received from customers are amazing,” said Lambo.
Ronert said 2022 was marked by an increase in diagnostic services, including skin care analysis from estheticians during their facials. She explained that more people are leaning toward professionals for expert advice so that they can continue their skin care regimen at home and maintain their self-care routine outside of the spa as well.
“This year, we’re anticipating more demand for natural or clean products and treatments as consumers are more educated on product ingredients than ever before,” she said. “Additionally, we’re seeing more growth in technology used within spas and salons.”
“Patients needs have changed; they’re becoming more aware of the subtle changes in their skin that the age process has caused,” said John Paul Tutela MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon with offices in New York City and Livingston, NJ.
Dr. Azza Halim MD, owns Sanctuary Medical Center in Boca Raton, FL. She noted that one of the most popular nonsurgical procedures, regardless of age, is non-surgical facial rejuvenation with lasers and PDO threads. Patients in their 30-40s, opt for the infamous “mommy makeover,” which includes breast augmentation/lift, tummy tuck and HD liposculpting. Those over age 50 focus on facelifts/eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty.
“The demand for minimally invasive procedures definitely increased in 2022 as more people wanted to look rejuvenated without the downtime of surgical recovery which will be continuing trend,” she said.
Going forward, Halim said more people are looking for “instant gratification” with minimal downtime. As a result, the favored procedures will be less invasive surgeries and nonsurgical rejuvenation for face and body with long-term results.
“That may mean demand for fillers will go down as ‘filler fatigue’ sets in—especially with so many celebrities dissolving their fillers for more natural, ‘back to basics’ look,” she predicted.
At the same time, Halim expects breast augmentation and liposuction will remain popular. Furthermore, people are getting mini facelifts at a younger age to slow down the aging process and quicker recovery along with laser rejuvenation and PDO threads.
“I have definitely seen increased demand for PDO threads,” she added.
“HA and PGA are friends. In fact, they work very well together which is why we formulate with both. PGA just does more!” asserted Statz.
PGA is larger in molecular size so it can hold up to 10 times more moisture than HA. It forms a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss, which leads to benefits like softer texture, less irritation and fewer breakouts—to name a few, according to Statz and Parikh.
“Because PGA slowly absorbs into skin, it can deliver a bouncy, dewy glow. As a peptide, it helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, accelerate skin’s natural exfoliation process, minimize hyperpigmentation, and boost elasticity—even more than topical collagen,” explained Parikh.
Since its debut, the A.P. Chem executives have been pleased with sales results.
“What’s been so encouraging to see is how much our customers clearly love the formulas because they don’t just repurchase,” said Statz. “They repurchase two, three or four moisturizers at a time—either for themselves or to give to friends and family. What’s also rewarding is that we see a mix of men and women buying our moisturizer. A core component of our brand values is inclusivity.
We formulated with different skin tones and skin types in mind. So, it makes us happy to see that our sales are coming from a diverse group of people.”
Cutelooks Skincare RX includes a cleanser featuring charcoal and green tea—both popular with consumers, noted Blackwood.
“Our cleanser helps revive pores and remove impurities with a succulent blend of organic extracts and powerful bacteria-fighting agents,” she explained. “It cleanses and detoxifies to unveil a luminous glow.”
For post-op skin care needs, Halim tells patients to focus on proper sleep, hydration and nutrition, and skin/wound care.
“We know our body heals from inside out and we also know nutrient deficiency can contribute to slower healing progress; therefore, it’s a comprehensive approach,” she explained.
To topically treat post-op skin, Halim suggests products that are natural and without irritants, fragrances or additives.
“I am in favor of ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, CoQ10, beta glucan, vitamins C and A, green tea and niacinamide to name a few. Occlusive moisturizers such as Elta or Aquaphor are important depending on degree of wound care needed,” she added.
According to Halim, post-op skin care requires good hygiene, proper moisturizers, hydration and sunblock, in order to speed healing and prevent scarring or pigmentation.
Tutela, too, is a proponent of vitamin C. He explained that vitamin C is an antioxidant known to boost collagen production while helping to prevent sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, and acne. Retinols are also important for patients because, as an exfoliating complex, they provide constant cellular turnover in the skin to increase collagen production.
“Marine extracts are really showing strong evidence in helping to prevent hyperpigmentation and creating a healthy skin barrier to keep that youthful appearance,” he added.
Some of Tutela ’s favorite finished formulas include Skin Medica’s TNS Advanced Serum, Skin Medica’s Vitamin C & E Complex, and Skin Medica’s Retinol Complex.
Still, Tutela said there’s still room for improvement in the skin care aisle.
“I wish skin care companies would simplify their products. Skin care is not a one-size-fits-all, but we all ultimately have the same goal in having our best face forward,” he told Happi. “I like Skin Medica for this reason, they don’t have an overwhelming number of products to choose from, and their goal is to keep faces looking clear and youthful.”
This year, NuVsio will introduce a microbiome-optimized deodorant. The formula has the impressive goal to end overall unhealthy microbial body odor. Proprietary technology sequesters and eliminates odors, while simultaneously nurturing a healthy microbiome that will resist future odors from occurring, according to Brei. Also in the works is a shave balm that’s billed as all-natural and microbiome-friendly. It reportedly leaves skin soft and healthy, without irritation. Finally, NuVsio is developing a hair treatment system, which is a new market altogether for the company.
Image Skincare is launching a number of products in 2023. According to Ronert, new products will focus on healing and protecting the skin barrier from environmental damage, with a focus on the microbiome. In addition, the company will expand its popular Prevention+ sun protection collection just in time for the summer season.
“What makes Image different from other formulas on the market is that our products are focused on delivering clean and clinical skin care all in one,” said Ronert. “ In 2023, we’re also excited to expand our clean formulas, and our sustainability efforts with eco-friendly packaging, along with a giveback to support a better planet for all.”
As companies launch new products and consumers return for facials, massages and the like, spa owners struggle to keep up with demand. Staffing is an ongoing concern for the spa industry, according to Pankey.
“It is virtually impossible to keep up with the demands when you struggle with hiring, training and retaining a good team,” she told Happi.
To address the staffing crunch, she advises clients to expand their search and be open to doing things a little differently.
“For example, a few staffing companies specialize in back filling staff. This can be short term, peak season help,” Pankey said. “Or, how about working out a job share scenario with other spas in your area? Another suggestion is finding a way to increase your average ticket price without having to worry about more staff by incorporating touchless experiences that will enhance the overall experience of the guest and productivity of your team.”
Staffing isn’t a concern for Glowbar. Liverman expects rapid expansion over the near term, with plans to more than double studio count by the end of 2023, both in the tri-state area (New York, New Jersey and Connecticut) and other markets. At the same time, headcount will grow across the organization, including senior leadership, and will continue investing in state-of-the-art training for Glowbar’s more than 100 licensed estheticians.
“We aim to make Glowbar synonymous with facials. We’re making skin care available to everyone by offering expert, no-frill facials that help consumers reach their skin care goals without the pain points of time or expense,” said Liverman. “We want to continue to scale and further our mission to deliver digestible, results-driven skin care to the masses and to make people feel confident in their skin.”
“Spending in the wellness and self-care sector is on the rise, with 62% of Americans wanting to make it a priority,” noted Glowbar CEO and Founder Rachel Liverman. “We view skin care as just as important as other health services and aim to make skin care equally efficient, valuable, and accessible to consumers at Glowbar.”
Liverman’s vision is shared by investors. Last month, the company closed on $10 million growth funding.
“Glowbar is looking to define the category of ‘wellcare,’ which we describe as the efficiency and expertise that we expect from health services, with the accessibility that fits into any lifestyle or budget.”
Janna Ronert, founder and chairwoman, Image Skincare, said that the industry is bouncing back post-pandemic thanks to surging interest in wellness.
“Consumers are more and more focused on the importance of their well-being, mental health and stress relief after covid,” she told Happi.
Wellness & Self-Care Drive Spa Market
Wellness and self-care are surely top-of-mind. As a result, spas rebounded strongly in 2022, according to Julie Pankey, spa coach and consultant.“Spas were busy and the term self-care became mainstream,” she explained. “This is the spa industry’s dream come true, to be speaking to a consumer who understands and values the necessity of wellness and self-care.”
Spa owners are reaping the benefits of this newfound interest.
Kris Adair, CEO, Adair Family Clinic & MedSpa, Peoria, AZ, recalled steady growth in monthly spa visits, new VIP memberships, and requests for staple services like Jeuveau and lip fillers.
“Business in 2022 was great! We’ve noticed an emphasis on self-care and skin care,” she told Happi. “We saw an increase in visits for our natural facial rejuvenation treatments and custom facial treatments especially our 21 and over Bad Girl Facial.”
Bad Girl Facial, known as BGF, is an indulgent facial using wine and beer to naturally exfoliate, brighten, tone and hydrate the skin in a very unique way. Clients will leave looking ready for action after this restoring facial treatment, according to Adair.
“Skin is not a one-size-fits-all option, which is where our custom facials really shine,” she explained. “These allow our estheticians to focus on the specific skin concerns of the client and tailor the treatment to their skin needs as well as provide the client with education on their home skin care regimen which includes over the counter recommendations for continued skin care which our clients truly appreciate.”
Cute Looks Medispa, Boca Raton, FL, is owned and operated by Ebonee Blackwood, a board-certified nurse practitioner. It specializes in skin care, facial aesthetic treatments such as Botox, dermal fillers, PDO threads (polydioxanone), radiofrequency treatments and hair laser removal treatments, as well as IV hydration, weight loss management and more.
“Although it was during the pandemic, 2022 was a great year for my business. I made a lot of connections, grew my following on social medica, networked—that brought a ton of traffic in my office,” she explained. “My clients are people who want to take care of their health and skin, and stay youthful. Their needs have gone from restoring their skin, to facial balancing and rejuvenating facial treatment.”
Most industry observers who spoke to Happi agreed that 2022 was a year of gains for the spa and professional skin care markets. But Elena Brei PhD, founder of NuVsio, maintained the past year was even more challenging than the pandemic years.
“Cost points for raw materials skyrocketed by as much as 480%, shipping costs increased and supply of raw materials was scarce, with lead times remaining persistently troublesome,” she told Happi.
NuVsio is a Toronto-based maker of microbiome-friendly skin care products. Last year, the company introduced I-O Advanced Nutrition, a dietary supplement designed to optimize the gut microbiome while simultaneously detoxifying and cleansing the gut. Caring for the gut is important every year, but it was especially so during the pandemic, when stress-eating was endemic.
“Given the unhealthy eating trends we noticed in 2021 and 2022, we thought it may be helpful for our customer base,” said Brei. “We’ve seen great successes with I-O Advanced Nutrition in reducing and potentially eliminating unhealthy gut microbiota that can lead to a host of dangerous physical issues, including leaky and toxic gut, as well as with mental health issues.”
Recession & Rejuvenation
In 2023, more pain could be in store for the spa and professional skin care market if the Fed misses that highly sought-after “soft landing.” Any recession that ensues will have mixed results for businesses.“(A recession) probably will impact those spa goers more than those visiting medi spas or medical care providers. We expect that spending on retail products will take a dip while demand for services will continue to be high,” said Dana Kreutzer, project lead, Kline’s beauty and wellness practice. “Certain membership multi-site outlets like Massage Envy and Hand & Stone, among others will fare well in a downturn economy. GlowBar’s premise is a 30-minute facial for $50. That’s definitely attractive to younger consumers.”
According to Pankey, with people still spending a great deal of time looking at themselves in virtual meetings, the desire to tighten and brighten continues to be a popular request.
“Technology, gadgets, tools and hands-free alternatives are also having their day in the spotlight,” she said. “Accomplishing more in less time and using technology as a way to see better and more long-lasting results as an alternative to invasive therapies has not quite reached its peak.”
Further, Pankey predicts that touchless therapy options and technology-driven wellness will continue to grow.
Glowbar’s core customer is female, ages 25-40, whom Liverman described as “newly independents” from all ethnicities and backgrounds.
“They are motivated by balance—health and wellness, social causes, travel and community—and influenced by social media, podcasts, influencers and peers,” explained Liverman. “They are opportunistic shoppers driven to shop based on value and crave personalization and experiences.”
Adair contends customers who have returned to the spa have a different mindset now.
“There seems to be a sense of ‘I deserve this’ or ‘I’m doing this for myself,’ toward spa services which I think is very empowering to see,” she explained. “For our spa, it’s important for us to allow our clients to feel these sensations and provide an encouraging and nurturing environment so they can relax and enjoy their treatments and leave feeling inspired and encouraged to continue their skin care.”
When customers are ready to head home from the spa, Adair and her team educate them about continuing with appropriately selected products.
“This trend is such an important one as people continue to experience post pandemic skin breakouts, rashes and hyperpigmentation issues,” she explained. “Focusing on these specific skin concerns with a customized treatment plan is essential for fixing these skin concerns for these consumers.”
Customized treatment options can include a hydrating acne facial, chemical peel as well as skin care product recommendations. Customers also appreciate recommendations for certain cosmetic products or brands may be provided to help support skin recovery.
Provence Apothecary Founder Julie Clark said consumers are getting more excited about understanding their skin on a deeper level and wanting to holistically support their skin.
“This has been our approach since 2012, but it seems like more and more people are interested in the holistic and slow beauty movement,” she told Happi.
Based in Toronto, Provence Apothecary reopened its spa last year and customers are slowly returning for treatments.
“For us, in Canada, having fewer pandemic restrictions was very positive and being able to see people face to face again was so wonderful,” she added.
Last year, the company launched a reusable silicone sheet mask set for face and eyes.
“It has been wonderful to experience the excitement around this product. It is great for the planet and your skin,” said Clark.
According to Provence Apothecary, one-time use sheet masks create thousands of pounds of trash that is not biodegradable or recyclable. Moreover, the masks are typically made of petroleum-based fibers, packaged in a non-recyclable foil packet or non-recyclable coated cardboard, sandwiched between two sheets of non-recyclable plastic.
Rachel Lambo, co-founder and CEO, Sade Baron, reports growing consumer interest in introducing body care as part of their overall routine.
“(They’re) seeking body care products that work and have powerful ingredients such as retinol, AHAs, vitamin C and other actives that can provide results, comfort and that are 100% clean,” she said.
Sade Baron’s Tai Body Oil and Bond Salve are both fragrance-free. They contain plant-powered ingredients, too.
“Customers love how quick absorbing and how the oil worked on skin soothing, calming their skin. It definitely is a game-changing product to include in your body care routine. The before-and-after images we received from customers are amazing,” said Lambo.
Ronert said 2022 was marked by an increase in diagnostic services, including skin care analysis from estheticians during their facials. She explained that more people are leaning toward professionals for expert advice so that they can continue their skin care regimen at home and maintain their self-care routine outside of the spa as well.
“This year, we’re anticipating more demand for natural or clean products and treatments as consumers are more educated on product ingredients than ever before,” she said. “Additionally, we’re seeing more growth in technology used within spas and salons.”
Doctors’ Orders
Younger consumers are also attracted to the benefits of surgical procedures.“Patients needs have changed; they’re becoming more aware of the subtle changes in their skin that the age process has caused,” said John Paul Tutela MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon with offices in New York City and Livingston, NJ.
Dr. Azza Halim MD, owns Sanctuary Medical Center in Boca Raton, FL. She noted that one of the most popular nonsurgical procedures, regardless of age, is non-surgical facial rejuvenation with lasers and PDO threads. Patients in their 30-40s, opt for the infamous “mommy makeover,” which includes breast augmentation/lift, tummy tuck and HD liposculpting. Those over age 50 focus on facelifts/eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty.
“The demand for minimally invasive procedures definitely increased in 2022 as more people wanted to look rejuvenated without the downtime of surgical recovery which will be continuing trend,” she said.
Going forward, Halim said more people are looking for “instant gratification” with minimal downtime. As a result, the favored procedures will be less invasive surgeries and nonsurgical rejuvenation for face and body with long-term results.
“That may mean demand for fillers will go down as ‘filler fatigue’ sets in—especially with so many celebrities dissolving their fillers for more natural, ‘back to basics’ look,” she predicted.
At the same time, Halim expects breast augmentation and liposuction will remain popular. Furthermore, people are getting mini facelifts at a younger age to slow down the aging process and quicker recovery along with laser rejuvenation and PDO threads.
“I have definitely seen increased demand for PDO threads,” she added.
Ingredients of Interest
A.P. Chem debuted in the fall of 2022. Company founders are Dermatologist Sherwin Parikh MD and Sandra Statz, a beauty industry executive. The company’s MicroDose Magical Moisturizer contains AdaptoGen8, a blend of eight multi-benefit mushroom extracts, including brightening, calming, energizing and detoxifying attributes. According to the executives, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and polyglutamic acid (PGA) will be the next big things in firming and tightening skin care products. In fact, they suggest both ingredients will dethrone hyaluronic acid as the industry’s go-to ingredient.“HA and PGA are friends. In fact, they work very well together which is why we formulate with both. PGA just does more!” asserted Statz.
PGA is larger in molecular size so it can hold up to 10 times more moisture than HA. It forms a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss, which leads to benefits like softer texture, less irritation and fewer breakouts—to name a few, according to Statz and Parikh.
“Because PGA slowly absorbs into skin, it can deliver a bouncy, dewy glow. As a peptide, it helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, accelerate skin’s natural exfoliation process, minimize hyperpigmentation, and boost elasticity—even more than topical collagen,” explained Parikh.
Since its debut, the A.P. Chem executives have been pleased with sales results.
“What’s been so encouraging to see is how much our customers clearly love the formulas because they don’t just repurchase,” said Statz. “They repurchase two, three or four moisturizers at a time—either for themselves or to give to friends and family. What’s also rewarding is that we see a mix of men and women buying our moisturizer. A core component of our brand values is inclusivity.
We formulated with different skin tones and skin types in mind. So, it makes us happy to see that our sales are coming from a diverse group of people.”
Cutelooks Skincare RX includes a cleanser featuring charcoal and green tea—both popular with consumers, noted Blackwood.
“Our cleanser helps revive pores and remove impurities with a succulent blend of organic extracts and powerful bacteria-fighting agents,” she explained. “It cleanses and detoxifies to unveil a luminous glow.”
For post-op skin care needs, Halim tells patients to focus on proper sleep, hydration and nutrition, and skin/wound care.
“We know our body heals from inside out and we also know nutrient deficiency can contribute to slower healing progress; therefore, it’s a comprehensive approach,” she explained.
To topically treat post-op skin, Halim suggests products that are natural and without irritants, fragrances or additives.
“I am in favor of ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, CoQ10, beta glucan, vitamins C and A, green tea and niacinamide to name a few. Occlusive moisturizers such as Elta or Aquaphor are important depending on degree of wound care needed,” she added.
According to Halim, post-op skin care requires good hygiene, proper moisturizers, hydration and sunblock, in order to speed healing and prevent scarring or pigmentation.
Tutela, too, is a proponent of vitamin C. He explained that vitamin C is an antioxidant known to boost collagen production while helping to prevent sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, and acne. Retinols are also important for patients because, as an exfoliating complex, they provide constant cellular turnover in the skin to increase collagen production.
“Marine extracts are really showing strong evidence in helping to prevent hyperpigmentation and creating a healthy skin barrier to keep that youthful appearance,” he added.
Some of Tutela ’s favorite finished formulas include Skin Medica’s TNS Advanced Serum, Skin Medica’s Vitamin C & E Complex, and Skin Medica’s Retinol Complex.
Still, Tutela said there’s still room for improvement in the skin care aisle.
“I wish skin care companies would simplify their products. Skin care is not a one-size-fits-all, but we all ultimately have the same goal in having our best face forward,” he told Happi. “I like Skin Medica for this reason, they don’t have an overwhelming number of products to choose from, and their goal is to keep faces looking clear and youthful.”
This year, NuVsio will introduce a microbiome-optimized deodorant. The formula has the impressive goal to end overall unhealthy microbial body odor. Proprietary technology sequesters and eliminates odors, while simultaneously nurturing a healthy microbiome that will resist future odors from occurring, according to Brei. Also in the works is a shave balm that’s billed as all-natural and microbiome-friendly. It reportedly leaves skin soft and healthy, without irritation. Finally, NuVsio is developing a hair treatment system, which is a new market altogether for the company.
Image Skincare is launching a number of products in 2023. According to Ronert, new products will focus on healing and protecting the skin barrier from environmental damage, with a focus on the microbiome. In addition, the company will expand its popular Prevention+ sun protection collection just in time for the summer season.
“What makes Image different from other formulas on the market is that our products are focused on delivering clean and clinical skin care all in one,” said Ronert. “ In 2023, we’re also excited to expand our clean formulas, and our sustainability efforts with eco-friendly packaging, along with a giveback to support a better planet for all.”
As companies launch new products and consumers return for facials, massages and the like, spa owners struggle to keep up with demand. Staffing is an ongoing concern for the spa industry, according to Pankey.
“It is virtually impossible to keep up with the demands when you struggle with hiring, training and retaining a good team,” she told Happi.
To address the staffing crunch, she advises clients to expand their search and be open to doing things a little differently.
“For example, a few staffing companies specialize in back filling staff. This can be short term, peak season help,” Pankey said. “Or, how about working out a job share scenario with other spas in your area? Another suggestion is finding a way to increase your average ticket price without having to worry about more staff by incorporating touchless experiences that will enhance the overall experience of the guest and productivity of your team.”
Staffing isn’t a concern for Glowbar. Liverman expects rapid expansion over the near term, with plans to more than double studio count by the end of 2023, both in the tri-state area (New York, New Jersey and Connecticut) and other markets. At the same time, headcount will grow across the organization, including senior leadership, and will continue investing in state-of-the-art training for Glowbar’s more than 100 licensed estheticians.
“We aim to make Glowbar synonymous with facials. We’re making skin care available to everyone by offering expert, no-frill facials that help consumers reach their skin care goals without the pain points of time or expense,” said Liverman. “We want to continue to scale and further our mission to deliver digestible, results-driven skin care to the masses and to make people feel confident in their skin.”
Consumers are committed to skin care. In Fall 2022, Kline conducted an online survey with 500 consumers who:
“Eighty-eight percent of respondents are planning to have the same number of non-invasive aesthetic procedures or book more non-invasive aesthetic procedures in 2023,” explained Kreutzer. “Fine lines and wrinkles, and skin hydration will be the leading concern for treatments in 2023 giving way to the continued popularity of neurotoxins and fillers. Peels will be popular as well.” In contrast, Kreutzer predicted that microderm, micro needling and laser skin resurfacing will take a back seat in 2023. |