In an increasingly crowded skincare market, consumers are often caught in a whirlwind of promises and products.
The allure of miraculous transformations is powerful, yet Ella Cressman, an experienced esthetician, formulator, and skincare educator, reveals a darker narrative behind the glossy facades in a compelling episode of “Nourify and Beautify.”
Her candid insights illuminate the industry’s murkier corners and offer guidance to navigate its complexities.
The ever-changing skincare landscape
Ella Cressman, whose career spans roles from esthetician to skincare formulator, suggests that sticking to the same skincare routine for years is a grave mistake.
“If you’re using the same skincare routine when you were 18, no matter what age you are—even if you’re 25—it’s time to change,” she advises listeners.
The dynamic nature of skincare needs requires that products be altered seasonally and with life’s phases. For many, professional guidance is invaluable in understanding these shifts.
The perils of CBD skincare marketing
Cressman dives deep into one of her personal experiences with misleading marketing in the CBD skincare arena. As she recounts, “The implication of what it can be used for was exaggerated for a little bit…some of it was innocent, misleading and some of it was intent and malicious.”
When the farm bill was changing the hemp landscape, she realized a need for transparency as misconceptions about CBD’s potential became rampant. These lessons are pertinent today as the ingredient continues to be a marketing focal point.
Exomes and vitamin C: ‘Ripe for misinformation’
The conversation doesn’t stop at CBD. Cressman addresses newer trends, primarily focusing on exomes and various forms of vitamin C, which she perceives as ripe for misinformation and consumer manipulation.
Exomes, she explains, are currently hyped without sufficient consumer understanding, recalling the earlier plant stem cell frenzy.
“The plant stem cells do have efficacy,” she notes, emphasizing the distinct differences between plant-based and mammalian sources, particularly in their interaction with skin barriers.
Similarly, Cressman calls attention to vitamin C formulations, which marketers often misrepresent by product labels.
“If it’s four different forms or three different forms at 5%, that must mean we have 15% vitamin C…saying we have 15% when you don’t, I don’t like that,” she states.
For many consumers, deciphering such complexities is challenging without professional assistance.
The role of estheticians as guardians of truth
The rise of misinformation sharply contrasts with the spirit of the skincare profession, Cressman emphasizes. Estheticians, driven by a passion for healing and educating, occupy a crucial space in combating the flood of misleading narratives.
She speaks in analogies and brings her scientific background to help professionals and clients visualize skincare science better: “Working with a pro is important because they’re going to look at some of your unique [needs].”
Cressman further highlights the importance of continual education for these professionals, underscoring the industry’s efforts to equip estheticians with up-to-date knowledge to aid their clients more effectively.
The social media dilemma
Among the pressing concerns discussed, social media’s influence looms large. Cressman describes the allure of social platforms such as TikTok, where misinformation can spread swiftly and unchecked.
“I’ve worked on the other side of the industry that seeks out these influencers…the industry is just looking for followers,” she reveals, underscoring the disconnect between expertise and influence online.
Consumers must remain cautious, she argues, and not rely solely on social media personalities lacking appropriate skincare qualifications. The prevalence of eye-catching trends tends to obscure the diversity of individual skincare needs, making professional consultations all the more crucial.
Cultivating informed consumers
In her concluding remarks, Cressman conveys a message of empowerment through knowledge. She encourages listeners to seek reliable information and keep asking questions until there is full comprehension of skincare principles.
“If there’s some kind of question still lingering inside of you…just don’t move forward or just trust your gut,” she advises.
Cressman acknowledges the evolving landscape where consumers are more educated and vigilant but warns against snap judgments and bandwagon trends.
Her parting words echo the podcast’s central theme: blending informed consumer habits with professional guidance can yield skincare routines that are both effective and safe. As consumers traverse the expansive world of beauty and wellness, Ella Cressman’s insights offer a beacon of truth and critical thinking. With the right approach, anyone can achieve clarity in an often opaque market, proving that knowledge and discernment are the best tools in crafting a successful skincare journey.
About the Podcast
“Nourify and Beautify,” hosted by Nour and Linda, explores the unseen facets of the beauty, health, and wellness industries, empowering listeners with expert interviews and insights into making informed product choices.
| Global Entrepreneurs Magazine News Team
