Please Stop Product Shaming
There have been times when I have absolutely cringed upon hearing a client’s product routine, I will never forget the time a client told me their skin care regimen consisted of baby oil and a little hot water. That experience along with several others made me pretty impatient and adamant about what should and shouldn’t be in a person’s skin care routine.
Other estheticians must feel the same way because I see a lot of product shaming posts across social media. Sometimes it’s a low-key jab at a client’s use of an apricot kernel scrub, to exfoliate. Other times it’s a full-on assault about using over the counter cosmetics.
I remember one time a client jokingly called me out about a face I made as she was sharing her daily skincare regimen with me. Although she said it jokingly, I realized I needed to be more conscientious towards my guests in this area. So, here is my method: First, I begin with a chat about the products they are currently using. I listen to the quick back story on how they ended up on their product journey, and I make important mental notes as they share. (Ex: their attitudes about their products, if they are feeling overwhelmed, and if it’s working). Next, I ask what is most important to them in their product routine, cost effectiveness, simplicity, or accessibility? Finally, I ask: How much existing product do you have left? I let my clients know I am not judging them but trying to ensure I match them with the best product solutions to meets their needs, even if the product is not on my shelf.
This approach has helped my client’s to be more honest about what they can afford and what works best for their lifestyle. I have built better relationships with them and learned more about their experiences with other skincare products. Many of my clients purchase products based on what they see on social media, commercials, magazines, YouTube etc. Other times it’s trial and error, or pretty packaging. Cost effectiveness is also big part of the equation for my guest. Although I am an IS Clinical partner some of my guests admit the products are a bit pricey. To address this concern, I began offering Cherry financing a buy now, pay later program geared towards med spas, and select esthetics businesses. It provides flexible payment plans, painless repayment, and the biggie for my credit-conscious client’s………no hard credit pull. Second, I became a partner with Skin Type Solutions (STS). STS allows my clients to shop a variety of products, specifically matched to their Bauman Skin Type. This works especially well for my clients that are interested in or need products other than my in-house retail collection.
These days I take a gentle approach with my guest. I am not anti-over-the-counter cosmetics. I ask questions and meet my guests where they are. If I am not a huge fan of what they are currently using, I provide education, helpful resources, and a roadmap to get us to a meaningful end goal. The bottom line is to talk to my guest, listen to their product journey, and be kind, caring, and understanding. That mean NO PRODUCT SHAMING!
Beautifully Yours,
Regina