The Aesthetic Report

Connect with us via text!

Paris lit up with a bold promise: clothes that treat your skin while you wear them. This episode, our in-house aesthetician's dig into Coperni’s C+ “skin-infused” line and ask the questions that matter—what’s in the fabric, how do the actives deliver, where’s the clinical data, and does the value add up once the 40-wash limit hits? With decades of combined experience across professional skin care, we look past the glossy campaign film to assess materials, microbiome claims, and the real-world risks of heat, sweat, and occlusion on sensitive skin. If you...

Connect with us via text!

Fifty years in professional skin care isn’t an accident; it’s the result of community, clear standards, and the courage to evolve without losing the human element. Today's episode features DERMASCOPE’s publisher and CEO, Amanda Strunk, and managing editor and podcast producer, Dorian Reyes, to share the story behind our golden year—how a pandemic-era 45th reset set the stage for a black-tie Golden Gala in Las Vegas, why the November anniversary issue felt like a love letter to aestheticians who built this field, and how a simple “globe” lesson reshaped our...

Connect with us via text!

Big things are happening across professional skin care, and we packed this short update with everything you need to stay ahead. From Aestheticians’ Choice Awards voting (your chance to elevate the products, treatment protocols, and professionals you trust most) to celebrating the milestone of Dermascope’s 50th with our anniversary issue to the soon-to-be reveal of the cover contest winner, you do not want to be out of the loop. 

If you enjoyed this update, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help other skin pros...

Connect with us via text!

Bring the science and the human touch together with this episode's guest, board-certified dermatologist and product innovator, Dr. Jennifer Linder, who shares how to design treatments that are powerful, precise, and comfortable—without pushing skin into unnecessary inflammation. She unpacks the rise of senescent “zombie” cells and why they accelerate visible aging, the difference between senolytics and senomorphics, the sweet spot approach to peels, multi-tasking formulas, and how to apply these concept at the treatment table. If this conversation sparks new ideas for your room,  subscribe for more episodes and leave a quick rev...

Connect with us via text!

When clients upload selfies to chatbots for “diagnoses,” we see how fast advice can outrun assessment, and why real results still come from trained eyes and hands. In this episode, our in-house aestheticians unpack the rise of ChatGPT use for skin care advice, including what it gets right, where its blind spots are, and the potential detriment to skin when using Chat GPT-recommended routines. Sit down with the team as we walk through the industry’s shift towards AI-inclusion, the hidden water cost of server farms, and comparing virtual consults to bots. Ready...

Connect with us via text!

Feeling overwhelmed by “poreless,” “glass,” and “flawless” promises? We go straight to the heart of what actually moves the needle for skin professionals: mastering physiology, going back the basics, and building real communication habits that win trust and retention. Our guest, Gina Marie McGuire—licensed aesthetician, educator, and CEO of GINAMARIE Skincare and GM Revolution—shares three decades of hard-won insight on how to ditch noise, simplify your backbar, and make smarter, safer decisions in the treatment room and beyond. In addition, hear about the industry's biggest gaps, the pressures of social media, and Gina...

Connect with us via text!

Sit down with our managing editor to get the dish on this DERMASCOPE's October. Hear about the "Working Together to Fight Skin Cancer: Education, Prevention, & Early Detection" webinar on October 20, the October issue with a beautiful cover featuring Face Reality Skincare, and an exclusive giveaway on DERMASCOPE's Instagram! As always, check the links below to learn more about anything you heard in this episode! 

Follow DERMASCOPE:
Instagram: @dermascope
Facebook: facebook.com/dermascope
Pinterest: @dermascope
TikTok: @dermascope

Additional Links:
Visit o...

Connect with us via text!

What does it take to stand out in today’s content-saturated beauty industry? This week, we sit down with Paul Heslop—serial entrepreneur, former skin care CEO, and the creative force behind Creative Juicey Studios, where he’s produced more than 3,000 videos for top spa and wellness brands. Paul shares his journey from building and selling an award-winning international skin care line to redefining how aestheticians and global brands market themselves through video, storytelling, and AI-driven strategies. From practical beginner tips to the biggest mistakes aestheticians make in marketing, this conver...

Connect with us via text!

From minimalist transparency to celebrity-backed controversies, beauty marketing is everywhere—and it’s getting bolder by the day. In this episode, Elizabeth and Lonice unpack the latest campaigns making headlines: The Ordinary’s stripped-down Instagram post calling out the industry’s obsession with celebrity endorsements, SKIMS’ $48 face-slimming wrap that’s sparked equal parts curiosity and criticism, and the rise of OnlyFans collaborations with brands like Urban Decay and TA3. Tune in for a discussion that dissects tone, timing, and brand identity in modern beauty campaigns—and what these trends might signal for the future of...

Connect with us via text!

In this season one throwback, creator of Mark Lees Skin Care, Dr. Mark Lees talks with Michelle to recap his illustrious career as one of the country's most noted skin care specialists, an award-winning speaker, product developer, and celebrated author. In this episode, Michelle and Dr. Lees discuss getting involved in the industry's mover and shaker circuit, what drew Dr. Lees to the aesthetics profession and how he built his spa, and getting into product development, plus all about combining luxury spa experiences with results-driven skin care,  corrective complexion care, and giving c...

Connect with us via text!

Summer is almost over, but that doesn't mean the DERMASCOPE calendar is slowing down. Listen in to this week's minisode to hear all about our September offerings, including the "The Luxury of Wellness Technology: Where Innovation Meets Care" webinar on September 29, the September issue featuring Pevonia on the front cover, and a few products our Managing Editor is loving! And, as always, check the links below to learn more about anything you heard in this episode! 

Follow DERMASCOPE:
Instagram: @dermascope
Facebook: facebook.com/dermascope
Pinterest: @d...

Connect with us via text!

This week on The Aesthetic Report, we’re joined by “The Disruptor” herself — Janel Luu, Founder and CEO of Le Mieux Cosmetics, PurErb, and Kizo Lab. With more than 40 years of experience as an educator, researcher, and formulator, Janel shares how Korean aesthetics are influencing the professional treatment room, why pros should move beyond inflammation-driven results, and how hands-on sculpting methods can help create a niche in today’s quick-fix beauty culture. Along the way, Janel offers insights into ingredient innovation, delivery systems, and the skills professionals need most to thrive in a competit...

Connect with us via text!

John Travolta’s recent appearance at a Grease singalong sparked buzz not just for the nostalgia, but for how incredible he looked at 71. His transformation points to a larger trend: more men are embracing aesthetic treatments, from skin care to injectables, to maintain a youthful edge. In this episode, we dig into why men are investing in these procedures, the stigma that still surrounds them, and how shifting ideas of masculinity are reshaping the conversation around beauty and aging. From celebrity influence to men’s most sought after treatments, we’ll break down w...

Connect with us via text!

Charmaine Cooper, The Skin Theologian, is a globally recognized educator, award-winning author, and force for cultural and clinical transformation in aesthetics. With over 28 years in the skin profession, she blends science, soul, and strategy to elevate care for melanin-rich skin worldwide. From her bestselling No Compromise Black Skin Care Guide series to her upcoming Modular Online Melanin-Rich Workshop, she shares insights on understanding melanocytes, developing cultural intelligence in client care, and rebuilding trust with historically underserved clients. Packed with stories, practical tips, and a fresh perspective on inclusive skin care, this episode...

Connect with us via text!

It's everyone's favorite time of year! Tune in to learn about how to shine a spotlight on the brands and professionals you love by nominating them for the 2026 Aestheticians' Choice Awards. Nominations are open from August 15 to August 31. Plus, get the low down on the pigmentation and discoloration issue, featuring this month's sponsor, Hale & Hush, on its gorgeous front cover. And, as always, check the links below to learn more about anything you heard in this episode! 

Follow DERMASCOPE:
Instagram: @dermascope
Facebook: facebook.com/dermascope

Connect with us via text!

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ducu Botoaca, award-winning aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr. Ducu Clinics in London, to talk about how to reframe unrealistic requests, how to help patients regain confidence after complications,  the rise of corrective treatments, and what happens during a gluteal HA repair procedure, as well as why Dr. Ducu believes the future of aesthetic medicine lies in subtlety, safety, and repair. From his patented techniques to his globally recognized work in non-surgical gluteal correction, Dr. Ducu has earned a reputation for artistry, innovation, and c...

Connect with us via text!

Rhode Cosmetics may have sold for $1 billion, but sales from major beauty players like Estée Lauder, L’Oréal, Coty, and Shiseido are declining. With layoffs looming and consumer habits shifting, we ask the big question: Is the beauty industry in decline, or are we just watching a post-boom recalibration? From the  "lipstick effect" to consumer fatigue, rising prices, and the growing importance of perceived value over price tag, we explore how pros can retain trust, stay resilient, and continue to offer emotional and educational value at the point of sale. Is th...

Connect with us via text!

What does it really take to build a standout brand as a solo professional? In this episode, we’re diving into how defining your niche, being clear about who you aren’t for, and figuring out your own unique way to make content can set you apart in a saturated industry. Join Michelle and Lexie Choate-Bewley of Skin by Lexie to hear about how Lexie found her voice, built an authentic online presence, and grew a loyal client base by staying true to her strengths. From camera confidence tips to behind-the-scenes realities and...

Connect with us via text!

Summer is heating up, and so is DERMASCOPE’s calendar! In this month’s episode, Dorian breaks down what's happening in July — from everything in the lifestyle and wellness issue and an exciting upcoming event to a special way to help us celebrate our 50th anniversary! Tune in to hear all about it and check the links below to learn more about anything in the episode.

Follow DERMASCOPE:
Instagram: @dermascope
Facebook: facebook.com/dermascope
Pinterest: @dermascope
TikTok: @dermascope

Additional Links:

Connect with us via text!

Customization is the cornerstone for any quality skin care routine with clients seeking individualized solutions more and more as the years pass. But what if there was a way to not only customize to skin type and condition(s), but also to an individual themself? Enter Val Neicu, the entrepreneur and skin care junkie behind SmartSKN. With a strong foundation in e-commerce, product development, and brand building, her mission is to bring smarter, more personalized solutions to the forefront of the beauty industry, with a growing focus on longevity and science-backed self-care...

Connect with us via text!

TikToker Tia Zakher recently went viral for dedicating herself to “caveman skin care,” which involves doing nothing to skin to maintain it, including washing even just with plain water. Over a period of a few weeks, Zakher appeared to develop a fungus on her face, but many have been left wondering whether this is a true story or simply rage bait content. As skin care grows in relevancy and popularity, there are those willing to dedicate their online presence to rage bait content or have built platforms on creating outrage. Whether Zakher is d...

Connect with us via text!

In this episode, clinical aesthetics meets energy work! Sit down with Mikaela MacLean — Master Aesthetician, Human Design Guide, and creator of Energetic Rx — to explore the powerful intersection of skin care and spirituality. With over 20 years in the treatment room, Mikaela shares how she transitioned from traditional facials to transformative, individualized healing sessions that blend Human Design, Reiki, sound healing, and skin care. For the results-driven professional and the energy-curious alike, this conversation offers a refreshing take on beauty that starts within. 

Follow DERMASCOPE:
Instagram: @dermascope
Faceb...

Connect with us via text!

We are already halfway through 2025; can you believe it? The year is flying by, so slow down and spend 5 minutes discovering everything coming your way this month from DERMASCOPE. The 2025 Cover Contest deadline on June 30th, our very special industry culture issue, and our IECSC Las Vegas tradeshow booth are all covered in this episode so tune in to stay in the know. Check out the links below for even more information! 

Follow DERMASCOPE:
Instagram: @dermascope
Facebook: facebook.com/dermascope
Pinterest: @dermascope
TikTok: @d...

Connect with us via text!

What does it really take to thrive as an aesthetician today? In today's episode, join Michelle D'Allaird Brenner and licensed aesthetician, beauty business coach, and creator of the 6-Figure Client Generating Bootcamp, Crystal Ngozi Ochemba, as they dish on navigating shifting client expectations, making smart decisions in a trend-heavy industry, and staying profitable in a crowded market. Additionally, hear about common mistakes professionals are making, the biggest challenges they face today, staying innovative on a budget, and what separates profitable practitioners from the overwhelmed. Whether you're solo or managing a staff, this...

Connect with us via text!

Did you know that patents expire? Well, after 20 years, SkinCeuticals' patent on their C E Ferulic Vitamin C Serum did just that, leaving the door open for the formula to be duplicated by other brands. This week, sit down with Elizabeth and Lonice, two of DERMASCOPE's in-house aestheticians, to get the scoop on what this means for SkinCeuticals and whether we can expect dupes in the future as well as the everchanging landscape of ingredient technology. Stay in the know on the skin care conversation with this very exciting installment of Scoop...

Connect with us via text!

How much does packaging really matter? According to Allison Kent-Gunn, Sales Director at Berlin-Jansy and beauty packaging consultant, a lot more than you think. In this episode, she sits down with Michelle to share how packaging shapes consumer perception, drives brand identity, and communicates performance before a product is even used. Plus, she breaks down what sustainable packaging means today, the impact of new tariffs on overseas sourcing, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you're launching a line or just love what’s inside the bottle, this episode unwraps everything you didn’t kn...

Connect with us via text!

Did you know that May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month? That's right; it's a big month for aestheticians, and DERMASCOPE's May calender only adds to the offerings. Tune in to hear all about the 2025 Cover Contest, our May Madness special section (who was the sunscreen champion of 2025?), and the equipment issue, featuring articles covering everything from body equipment and lasers to microneedling and device investments. Join Managing Editor, Dorian Reyes, to hear about all of this and more, and check out the links below for additional info!

Follow DERMASCOPE<...