Employees are essential for building a strong and resilient company — there are no ifs, ands, or buts about that. A spa’s team members collectively form the firm foundation upon which growth is possible. Without them and their knowledge, skills, and talents, it’s impossible to survive, let alone thrive. The people and teams behind the scenes and on the front line, are all an integral part of day-to-day business operations. Because a spa relies on its team, it’s imperative to hire the right individuals with the right qualifications for the right positions at the right time.

The following should be considered when building a team. One thing I have learned throughout my years as a business owner is that metrics are king. Analyzing various aspects of a company’s performance and operations, such as workflow, sales projections, and cash flow are pivotal when hiring a new employee. Impulse hiring can create financial issues for a spa. If a spa cannot afford to keep the new hire, it negatively affects the team’s morale.

DETERMINING WHEN TO HIRE A NEW TEAM MEMBER

Here are some suggestions to help assess if it is the right time to hire a new employee. 

What Are The Current Business Needs?

Take a close look at the spa’s workflow and services output. How many services are provided? Per day? Per week? Per month? Throughout the entire year?

Once that information is established, it can be taken a step further by breaking down the data into categories, such as massage therapy, facials, body treatments, manicures, and pedicures.

With this data, the services per treatment or per station can be worked out to determine a services-to-technician ratio.

Also, a practitioner should research if their spa frequently receives requests for appointments but cannot accept them because there are not enough employees or available treatment rooms. On the other hand, perhaps treatment rooms sit idle because they are not getting enough appointment requests to fill them.

What Are Your Future Plans and Expectations?

If a spa owner is considering expanding their spa’s facility or offerings in the future, one must ask oneself:

• Will there be a new treatment room with no existing staff available to fulfill the anticipated appointment needs?
• Will the spa offer a new service that requires employee technical training and additional supplies?
• Is there any major equipment that’s outdated or in poor condition that require money to repair or replace?

This all leads to the bottom line – the budget.

Is Cash Available to Sustain A New Hire?

A spa owner will want to confirm they have enough cash to hire a new employee before bringing them onto the team.

• How much will they pay them in salary and wages?
• Will they receive a commission?
• If employee benefits are provided, what costs are associated with benefits for a new hire?

What Is the State of a Practitioner’s Existing Workforce?

Before hiring new employees, it’s critical to look at what’s happening with the existing team. 

• Are current employees satisfied with their jobs?
• Is anyone close to retirement?
• Is there a bad apple in the bunch that requires disciplinary action or possibly termination?
• Are there systems in place to ensure workplace efficiencies?
• Do employees have an abundant amount of downtime throughout the workday?
• Is everyone on the current team in a position in which they can thrive and develop professionally?

Thinking about these factors will help a spa owner identify whether existing employees might be able to handle the workload of a new employee or if a new team member is truly needed.

What Are the Clients Saying?

Client feedback is as crucial as metrics when evaluating the need for new staff. Learning what clients think about their experience will help determine if changes are needed.

For example, if clients complain about feeling rushed, perhaps spa employees are spread too thin and could benefit from additional support through a new team member.

What Are Employees Saying?

Employee feedback can help assess if a new team member is needed. Usually, employees are the face of a business and often the first to bear the brunt of client frustrations because of staffing deficits (either quantitatively or qualitatively). Lean about existing team members for insight by ensuring that their feedback is welcome and won’t result in any form of retaliation. Here are a few things to consider: 

• Do employees see breakdowns in the workflow needing to be addressed?
• Are employees required to fill-in in areas of need where they are not technically knowledgeable or efficient?
• Are employees interested in being cross-trained to help in other areas when needed?
• Do employees have the necessary skillsets and foundational knowledge to be cross-trained in those areas?

TO HIRE OR NOT TO HIRE?

I encourage spa owners to use these tips as a starting point for determining if new staff is needed. However, new hires are just the tip of the iceberg. Every spa has its own unique operations and team dynamics. Consider your specific situation and the nuances of your business to make hiring decisions.

Heather Kreider, L.E., R.N., co-owner of Makes Scents Natural Spa Line and Hempfield Botanicals (CBD), both Certified B Corporations, has lived and breathed the spa industry for over 20 years. Her credentials include post-graduate certification in advanced skin care at the International Dermal Institute and experience as an aesthetician specializing in European skin care. Kreider also is a licensed registered nurse. Besides her company’s signature line of products, Kreider’s company also creates custom formulations for spas who wish to offer their own distinctive treatments. All their products, including natural, vegan, and organic, are certified cruelty-free.

Skin care professionals spend roughly one third of their lives at work, so it goes without saying – employees want to be happy at their workplace. Moreover, people are looking for a stimulating, friendly, and creative environment that allows for growth. When that is met, it allows individuals to have a healthy work-life balance.

HAPPY EMPLOYEES EQUAL A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS

Employers creating workplaces that encourage staff retention begins with strong leadership and a cohesive team – this is vital to the heart of one’s business. Having the right staff in place also plays a key role in a business’s success. This begins with thorough interviews to make sure the potential employee is the right fit for a spa.

The main objective for an employer should be to build a healthy work environment. One way to achieve this is to ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities, so it is imperative to provide clear and concise directions. Having an employee handbook for each staff member to read and sign will document they understand all the polices. Also, when a spa owner shares their vision, it allows every employee to see how they fit into the big picture. Employers should strive to build a culture where employees feel valued and heard. This will help to reduce staff turnover.

Employees should have the ability to contribute to the team and receive positive encouragement from their employer. When constructive feedback is provided, it fosters an environment where the staff feels empowered. Satisfied employees give 150% to every task assigned. Additionally, high-quality work and dedication starts top to down. It is critical to be a mentor and display the work ethic desired. This will ultimately create strong work production.

Another thing to consider is that strong companies are built on strong relationships. Positive employee relations begin by building a good rapport with staff members. Be as personable as possible because working well with others makes things run more smoothly. Positivity and laughter are contagious so try to make interactions meaningful. Staff will mimic the employer’s enthusiasm and provide clients with the same respect.

However, we are human, and humans come with flaws. Sometimes those flaws present themselves in conflict with a supervisor or another employee. Therefore, open communication between the staff and employer is paramount for resolution. Also, encourage staff members to resolve issues between themselves when possible. When an employer must intervene, a private location should be provided to discuss any issues. Private conversation should not happen in front of other employees. The same goes for an employee who wishes to discuss an issue with their employer.

Difficult conversations can be hard to have because most people do not like confrontation. It is important to remember the goal for every tough conversation is a positive outcome. This can be achieved by changing the mindset of the employer. The situation can be controlled by taking a few deep breaths and deciding the meeting will be constructive.

Key ideas to remember when addressing a conflict:

• Never get emotional
• Nip issue in the bud quickly
• Be direct and specific – state the facts clearly
• Be empathetic
• Listen to their side (if the conflict is between co-workers hear both sides)
• Consider their point of view
• Allow for questions
• Come to a mutual understanding
• Document meetings
• Create a detailed plan for a resolution

Even the best staff members can fall short occasionally; some situations may require a sit-down meeting. Here are some critical points for providing constructive feedback:

• Be human.
• Don’t sugarcoat issues as it robs an employee of their growth.
• State the facts observed and how it has impacted their work performance.
• Inform them every error is an opportunity for improvement. Have a two-way conversation and ask them how they think they can improve.
• Encourage all staff to ask for help, this leads to less mistakes in the future.
• Document and develop a follow-up plan to ensure it has been corrected.

Conversations are crucial to the fluidity of business. And the most significant take away is that strong employee relations are essential to a healthy work atmosphere. The above tips are useful for both employers and employees to follow. Always remember to be professional, stay calm, and treat each other with respect. When a meeting does not go as planned, take some time to reflect on how to improve for future conversations. 

Carlee Clark is licensed aesthetician and graduate of The Aesthetic Science Institute. She oversees all student enrollment processes, as well as Aesthetic Science Institute policies and procedures. Clark has over 20 years of sales, marketing, and management experience — all of which are incorporated into her daily practice as the institute director. She works closely with student and staff on preparation for job placement, interview skills, and professional etiquette. Clark’s dedication to the profession, both educationally and practically, is the foundation for her essential role in helping others create promising futures.

One of the latest trends in the spa industry is adding virtual reality to the menu. Virtual reality is a way to transcend into a different experience. Incorporating a device that can add an awakening of the mind through images and sound, allows a client to move within a virtual realm. Even though the physical body is laying on a table or a lounge chair, virtually, the client may be exploring the depths of the ocean, climbing a mountain top, or flying up in the clouds. Emotions become stirred and waken the mind. This experience can be furthered through touch.

All too often, clients associate sunscreen with hot, intense, summer days. However, practitioners know that harmful rays of the sun can find their way to the skin no matter the season or time spent indoors. Many clients have learned the hard way to protect their skin from the sun, but sometimes they still need a reminder. Understanding the best approaches and avoidances after an accidental sunburn is key. It is important to know and educate clients on the best practices to prevent further irritation or pain.

Use pain relieving products with ingredients ending in “caine”. There are plenty of pain-relieving creams and sprays out there with various ingredients. However, those like lidocaine and benzocaine should be skipped for use on sunburns. These can irritate tender skin or even cause an allergic reaction.

Implementation of a results-driven skin care regimen that addresses skin concerns should be complemented with a daily, broad-spectrum coverage sunscreen. This protects the skin and prevents the introduction of future damage or compounding current sun damage.

One of the most widely used superficial peels available to an aesthetician is the glycolic acid peel. Glycolic acid is a 2-hydroxyethanoic acid derived from sugar cane. This acid is the smallest alpha hydroxy acid and is predominately water-soluble. Percentage and pH determine strength and depth of the peel. Once erythema has been achieved, glycolic acid should be neutralized with a 10% sodium bicarbonate or a damp cloth of saline solution. The neutralization prevents overpenetration that can lead to skin injury. Glycolic acid peels belong to the alpha hydroxy acid family and have been widely used to treat conditions, such as hyperpigmentation, age spots, melasma, so forth. Thus, glycolic acid can minimize pores and increases cellular turnover to reveal a brighter complexion.

 The strength of glycolic acid is dependent on the percentage and the pH. Overall, the total concentration determines the depth of the peel and the collagen stimulation. Typically, the therapeutic benefits are achieved within a six-week period. However, results can occur sooner depending on frequency of application and the client’s skin reaction. In general, a lower percentage of non-neutralized glycolic acid can be used daily or weekly to treat freckles, fine lines, and wrinkles. Glycolic acid remains a constant with clients because of its benefits and with proper usage, its lasting results.

The seasons change as does a person’s skin requirements. This makes it the perfect time to prepare the skin by performing an exfoliation series. Skin care professionals recommend that clients exfoliate one to three times per week depending on their skin type and condition. However, many clients are not that disciplined. In terms of honesty, how many practitioners are diligently following their own advice?

Skin care professionals have many options of exfoliation at their disposal with both modalities and products. This article will speak about alpha and beta hydroxy acids as most spas utilize both professional and homecare products containing these actives. Although they are not the newest active ingredients, they have remained in the limelight due to their proven results. There are numerous alpha hydroxy acids that can be used alone or in combination with beta hydroxy acids depending on the skin type, condition to be treated, and the depth of penetration required.

CHEMICAL EXFOLIATION

Alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids are very different acids. Alpha hydroxy acids are derived from fruit acids or synthetic formulations. These acids can be found in sugar, milk, and citrus fruits, and are also water soluble. Alpha hydroxy acid exfoliation removes the top layer of cells on the skin to reveal the newer younger cells below. The most common forms of alpha hydroxy acids used are lactic and glycolic acid. Products that include alpha hydroxy acids work to brighten dull complexions and diminish the signs of aging, while promoting a more radiant look and tone.

Beta hydroxy acids are closely related to alpha hydroxy acids because they are separated in configuration by a single carbon atom. Beta hydroxy acids are lipid- or oil-soluble, and their affinity for oil makes them especially valuable in treating oily skin, as well as those with mild to moderately severe facial acne. Salicylic acid is the most utilized beta hydroxy acid. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial properties, and is effective in small concentrations (in 1% to 2% doses). In over-the-counter formulations, beta hydroxy acids will be listed in the middle or closer to the end on the ingredient list. Beta hydroxy acids are milder than alpha hydroxy acids, yet still effective when used alone, especially on sensitive skin.

Due to salicylic acid’s affinity for oil in the skin and keratolytic properties, it is able to dissolve the skin around acne lesions. This reduces sebaceous follicle blockage by stimulating the release of keratin, oil, dirt, and debris. This action eventually minimizes the production of blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads. The antimicrobial action works to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, which is especially beneficial in the treatment and prevention of acne.

BENEFITS OF CHEMICAL EXFOLIANTS

 Both alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids breakdown the most superficial layer of skin – stratum corneum, causing dead skin cells to detach and shed. It is from this exfoliating action that new skin cell growth is stimulated. Smoother, brightened skin emerges, rough dry patches are resurfaced, uneven pigmentation spots become faded, and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles is improved.

An exfoliating peel containing either alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, or a combination of both can be added to most skin care treatments to eliminate the build-up of keratinized cells, stimulate cell turnover, and increase the absorption of the products subsequently applied. This makes it the perfect choice to freshen the skin and ensure that the ultimate benefits are achieved from the season’s new product prescription.

When it comes to weight loss, the market offers innumerable methods that promise great results in just a couple of days. Starting from restrictive diets and ending with the fitness craze overtaking the world, people are searching for the most efficient ways to lose weight.

Body wraps are considered one of the most prominent means of weight loss. It is claimed that body wrapping will help clients lose those inches on their waist, tighten the skin, and make it smoother. But can it bring noticeable results?

Rahsha Batiste is a licensed master aesthetician in Virginia, with over three years of experience in the body and skin care industry and 25 years of Corporate America Leadership. Batiste has gained extensive experience treating all different skin types. She has performed treatments ranging from acne facials to body contouring. She uses the most cutting-edge equipment available in the industry. She specializes in treating bodies non-surgically and preparing the body for other cosmetic procedure. Batiste also has extensive experience in the Cavitation procedure and body contouring treatments. Since graduating from the Institute of Epidermal of Cell Training in 2016, Batiste has developed her knowledge by working as a body contouring specialist for her business, Unique Skin and Beauty Bar.

Generations removed from the Emerald Isle, Skin Blends CEO Kathleen Carney returned to Dublin’s cobblestone streets back in 2015 in search of distant relatives. With a wee bit of genealogy homework in pocket, she knocked on doors in hopes of connecting with long lost kin. Friendly faces with thick Irish accents answered, and Carney eventually found what she was looking for. She met a gentleman with the surname Finn, Carney’s mother’s maiden name – they chatted and confirmed their blood connection. With an expanded family tree, she traveled north to Derry and knocked on more doors until she found the McDaids on her father’s side. Then she found Carney, Ireland, a little village in Sligo County. Pub locals there welcomed her with traditional Irish sing-alongs. Carney’s last stop was on Ireland’s west coast and its massive Slieve League Cliffs. It is an inspirational place and one of Ireland’s top attractions. The natural rock balcony is perched more than 2,000-feet above the Atlantic Ocean. America is a little more than 4,000 miles in the distance; it is the perfect place for a self-made entrepreneur to sit, think, and dream.

The Farmhouse Spa & Waxing Studio is in the small town of Monticello, Georgia.

Currently, many states mandate that both skin care providers and their clients wear face masks during treatments. Providing body treatments or body facials can not only be beneficial to the clients, but a great way to maintain and grow a business. With many people unable to travel, it is like a miniature vacation to restore the body and mind.

It is a fact that the world is living in unprecedented times and stress levels confirm this. According to one recent study, nearly seven in 10 employees indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic is the most stressful time of their entire professional career. This has resulted in marked increases in new prescriptions for anti-depressant, anti-anxiety, and anti-insomnia medications.

Lydia Sarfati is a master esthetician and the founder and CEO of Repêchage. Sarfati is an international industry leader and the developer of the world-renowned Repêchage Four-Layer Facial. Ms. Sarfati has contributed to the elevation of the esthetics field in the US and abroad, serving as the Chairman of CIDESCO Section U.S.A, the world's major international beauty therapy association. She was also a contributing author to the “Milady Standard Esthetics: Fundamentals, Twelfth Edition,” and authored “Success At Your Fingertips: How to Succeed in the Skin Care Business,” a guide to creating a successful skin care business. repechage.com or pro.repechage.com