What is your background in beauty and science and why did you create your brand?

I have a Bachelor's Degree in Women's Studies from the University of Chicago. After moving to New York, I fell in love with the beauty industry and got my esthetician's license. I worked in a day spa that introduced me to organic and plant-based products, and soon after went to work for a celebrity dermatologist. Here I learned about highly effective products and non-invasive treatments, and was inspired to create my own line that combined natural ingredients that gave clinical results. I opened my own spa in 2006 and haven't looked back since.

What is exactly a facialist, compared to a dermatologist or an aesthetician?

I call myself a facialist because I opened my spas based on my line of custom facials I created. Giving my clients beautiful skin was my first priority. From there, the spa services have expanded to body, but at my core I'm a facialist.

What makes Joanna Vargas a unique brand in the market?

We are unique because my products were created after seeing clients in my spa. I understood what exactly people wanted to see in their skin and how much time they have to commit to a skincare routine. I wanted to make a line of products that everyone could use and see results from.

You insist on the importance of purification, can you explain why it is so important?

Purifying the skin goes beyond getting the surface clean. It's detoxifying from harmful chemicals, heavy metals, pollutants that trigger inflammation, which is the cause of most unwanted skin problems. When we stop or manage inflammation, powerful healing begins. My line is designed to work its way to the source of the underlying inflammation, then upward to strengthen cellular communication and empower the skin's protective barrier, all while quickly and cosmetically improving the targeted surface condition. In order to see results, start with detoxification internally and externally. Detoxing the skin on a regular basis is not just for acne prone skin: heavy metals age the skin as well !

What is the added value in using sheet masks compared to conventional masks?

Sheet masks are great because you can use them anywhere, anytime, without needing water to rinse afterwards like conventional masks. I'm all about taking care of your skin on the go, and sheet masks are perfect for travel and in-flight treatments.

What is your definition for beauty? 

My definition of beauty is being happy and comfortable in your skin. I truly believe everyone can have great skin, even if they weren't born with it.  Life and skin can always improve! 

What are your 5 tips for a gorgeous skin? 

  1. Cleanse your skin every night, without fail. 
  2. Always use a sunscreen on your face, even if it's cloudy out. 
  3. Avoid sugar as much as possible. 
  4. Sleep! Getting an adequate amount of restorative sleep on a nightly basis is an essential part of your long-term health and your beauty routine. 
  5. Sanitize your cell phones before placing on your face, or use hands-free options to avoid bacteria from your phone being transferred to your skin.

How did you conceive the great smell of Joanna Vargas skincare?

Since I use my products in my spa services with celebrity clients, I had to make sure that each product smelled gorgeous. Using only natural botanical blends, I've created unique fragrances for my line that can't be found anywhere else.